Rue de Paris - A Walk Through La Réunion’s History

Rue de Paris, located between the Rond-Point de la Victoire and the Jardin de l’État, is one of Saint-Denis’ most iconic streets. It boasts an impressive collection of monuments, colonial and Creole houses, all witnesses to a rich historical and cultural past. Known by several names over the centuries (from Grande Rue to Rue Royale, then Rue Impériale), the street was officially named Rue de Paris in 1848 by order of Governor Joseph Graëb. Today, it is filled with architectural and cultural treasures that visitors can discover on foot.

A journey back in time through Creole houses

Walking along this street, you will find bourgeois houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, showcasing typical Creole architecture. Often listed as UNESCO heritage, these houses are open-air museums. They feature signature architectural details such as the varangue, a covered veranda where guests were once received; the lambrequins, decorative woodwork used to direct rainwater; and the guétali, a small kiosk often placed at the corner of properties to discreetly watch passersby. With their corrugated iron roofs, bright colors, and unique charm, these Creole houses tell the story of the island and its people. Each one is different, revealing the soul of Réunion and its architectural heritage.

A path through Creole history and culture

As you stroll, you will encounter several houses offering a glimpse into the island’s historical past. For example, the house at No. 7, once owned by Marie-Claire Potier, is a genuine relic of early 20th-century Réunion architecture. At No. 15, where Léon Dierx was born in 1838, you will find a listed Historical Monument now housing the departmental architecture service. Continue to No. 25 to admire Villa Repiquet, built in the mid-19th century, and finally to No. 39, the charming home of Henria de Boisvillier, a perfect example of Creole elegance with its well-kept garden.

Rue de Paris is undoubtedly a must-see for lovers of history and culture. As you walk its length, you will discover far more than just a street: a genuine journey back in time, into the heart of the history and soul of Saint-Denis and Réunion.