Passage Jouffroy, a 19th century covered gallery on the Grands Boulevards
The Passage Jouffroy is one of the 30 or so remaining covered passages built in the 19th century.
Located on the Grands Boulevards, it connects Nos. 10-12 Boulevard Montmartre to No. 9 Rue de la Grange-Batelière. It was built in 1847 to capitalise on the success of the neighbouring Passage des Panoramas.
The Passage Jouffroy is connected to the Passage Verdeau, which exits onto the north pavement of Rue de la Grange-Batelière.
Named after its founder, Félix de Jouffroy, Count of Gonsans, the Passage Jouffroy quickly became a lively place, housing restaurants, dressmakers, tailors, hairdressers, and other shops, and attracting a multitude of visitors. It was also one of the largest covered arcades in Paris and the first to be equipped with underfloor heating, a true technical feat for its time. The magnificent glass roof, supported by robust cast-iron columns anchored directly in the roof structure, lends the gallery both structural solidity and undeniable aesthetic appeal.
It boasts a unique architectural design, as it begins with a long corridor before curving towards its entrance on Rue de la Grange Batelière, thus following the natural slope of the land. The entrance on Boulevard Montmartre was originally created through a private mansion, later replaced by the current Hôtel Ronceray.
Oldest shops in Passage Jouffroy
While fashion and luxury boutiques now dominate the Passage Jouffroy, three historic establishments have stood the test of time.
Founded in 1882, the Musée Grévin is a renowned wax museum has its entrance is on the Boulevard Montmartre, but its exit within the passage, next to the Hôtel Chopin, a charming establishment inaugurated in 1846.
The Librairie du Passage, located near the entrance on Rue de la Grange Batelière, offers a delightful selection of antique and secondhand books.
Classified as a historical monument in 1974, the Passage Jouffroy underwent a major renovation in 1987.
As you stroll through the passage, let yourself be charmed by the mosaic floors, the shop windows, the elegant glass roof, and the variety of lighting and decorations that contribute to its old-world atmosphere.
Opening hours: every day from 7am to 9:30pm – Free entry
Directions: 9th district – nos10-12 boulevard Montmartre – no9 Rue de la Grange-Batelière
Metro station: Richelieu-Drouot or Grands Boulevards on Lines 8,9
Coordinates on Bld Montmartre: Lat 48.871962 – Long 2.341939
