An Enchanting Square at the Foot of Sacré-Cœur
The Place des Abbesses captures the spirit of Montmartre, merging historic charm with vibrant local life. This triangular square offers a snapshot of Montmartre’s storied past and creative present.
It features notable landmarks, including the art nouveau metro entrance by Hector Guimard, the striking Saint-Jean-de-Montmartre Church, and the Wallace Fountain, all of which contribute to its unique atmosphere. At the heart of this artistic hub, you’ll also find bustling cafés and shops, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Montmartre.
The Historic Roots of Abbesses: A Tribute to Montmartre’s Abbesses
The name “Place des Abbesses” is a tribute to the abbesses of Montmartre, with roots tracing back to a Benedictine abbey established in the 12th century by Louis VI, also known as Louis the Fat.
Once the center of monastic life, the area’s history is preserved in surrounding street names honoring the famous abbesses who led the abbey. Though the original abbey buildings are long gone, the square and its surroundings continue to echo the spirit of these influential figures through the evocative ambiance of its streets and architecture.
Architectural Icons and Memorials of the Square
One of Place des Abbesses’ most striking features is its art nouveau metro entrance, one of the few remaining original Guimard pavilions in Paris. This historic structure was relocated to Abbesses from Hôtel de Ville station in 1974 and is now a protected monument.
Nearby, the Saint-Jean-de-Montmartre Church—an unusual basilica built from brick—draws admiration for its unique structure and dedication to early 20th-century architectural innovation.
The square also hosted the Lion Furieux by animal sculptor Auguste Nicolas Cain in the early 1900s, a bronze statue that was melted down during World War II, symbolizing the resilience of this storied place.
The Square Jehan-Rictus and Its ‘I Love You’ Wall
On the northern side of the square lies the peaceful Square Jehan-Rictus, occupying the former site of Montmartre’s town hall. This intimate park is home to the “Wall of Love” (Mur des je t’aime), a modern romantic art installation by Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito, where the words “I love you” are written in over 300 languages.
This colorful wall has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a serene contrast to the bustling square and a testament to the universal language of love.
A Walk Through Time: The Place des Abbesses in the 1900s
In the early 20th century, the Place des Abbesses was central to local life, with the 18th arrondissement’s first town hall on its grounds until 1905. The historic significance of the square has been immortalized by local artists, including Roland Dubuc, whose painting, “La Place des Abbesses,” captures its essence and can be viewed at the Montmartre Museum.
Though time has changed its landscape, Place des Abbesses remains a living reminder of Montmartre’s evolution and its vibrant community spirit.