Passage du Grand Cerf, one of the few remaining covered galleries in Paris
The Passage du Grand Cerf is situated in the bustling 2nd district, and links Rue Saint-Denis to Rue Dussoubs.
Its entrance on Rue Saint-Denis is situated opposite that of the the charming Passage du Bourg-l’Abbé. Originally developed in the mid-1820s on the grounds of the Hôtellerie du Grand Cerf and the former relay station Terminus des Messageries Royales, the passage’s official opening date remains uncertain. However, we know that it was accessible to the public by 1827.
Distinguished by its 12-meter-high glass roof, a remarkable feature for the time, the passage boasted shop windows on both the ground floor and the first floor.
This innovative design allowed for lodgings to be situated on the third floor, catering primarily to production workshops and craft shops rather than luxury boutiques—a departure from the norm observed in other covered passages where accommodations were typically on the second floor.
However, business struggled to thrive, facing stiff competition from the numerous shopping galleries emerging across central Paris. So, in 1862, the passage’s owner relinquished ownership to the the Assistance Publique due to dwindling profits.
Despite changing ownership, the passage continued to face financial challenges, leading to its eventual abandonment. Neglected for decades, it was even temporarily closed due to concerns over the structural integrity of its glass roof, which had suffered from years of neglect.
Loved again!
Since 1985, the Passage du Grand Cerf has been under private ownership, undergoing extensive restoration and renovation in 1990.
With its towering 12-meter glass roof, it claims the title of the tallest passage in Paris.
The passage’s refined décor features exquisite woodwork, though it maintains a more understated elegance compared to its opulent counterparts like the Galerie Vivienne, favored by affluent Parisians near the Louvre Palace.
Today, it hosts a variety of boutiques showcasing creations by designers and artisans. Visitors can browse handmade jewelry, furniture, crafts, leather goods, and clothing, among other offerings.
With its enchanting old-world allure, the Passage du Grand Cerf exudes a timeless charm that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
As you wander through its corridors, keep an eye out for whimsical decorations adorning some shop windows, including a deer head (Tête de Cerf), an elephant head, and motifs such as crabs and dragonflies.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday – 8.30am to 8pm – Closed on Sunday – Free access
Directions: 2nd district – 145 Rue St-Denis – 8 rue Dussoubs
Metro: Etienne Marcel on Line 4
Coordinates: Lat 48.864744 – Long 2.349291
