In the heart of Paris, within the bustling 2nd arrondissement, lies an unusual and charming attraction: the shortest street in the city, Rue des Degrés.
This tiny street, more of a staircase than a traditional thoroughfare, is one of the shortest in the world, with its counterparts being Elgin Street in Bacup, England, McKinley Street in Bellefontaine, Ohio, and the shortest of all, Ebenezer Place in Wick, Scotland.
The 2nd arrondissement is a major business hub, home to many of Paris’s banks, numerous shopping arcades, and the former stock exchange.
Amid these landmarks, Rue des Degrés stands out as a unique historical relic. Measuring just 3.3 meters wide and 5.75 meters long, this street consists of 14 steps that connect Rue de Cléry and Rue Beauregard.
The name “Rue des Degrés” translates to “Street of Steps,” which is fitting as this street is practically a staircase.
Its origins date back to medieval Paris, with both Rue de Cléry and Rue Beauregard tracing the path of the ancient Wall of Charles V.
Over centuries, garbage accumulated along the wall, forming a small hillock that Rue des Degrés now spans.
Despite its size, Rue des Degrés is a popular Instagram spot.
The street has no residences or windows, but it does hold historical significance.
A plaque on the street commemorates an attempt by Baron de Bratz and his cohorts to assist Louis XVI in escaping on the morning of January 21, 1793.
Rue des Degrés may be small, but its historical charm and unique character make it a noteworthy stop in the rich tapestry of Parisian history.