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Galerie Vivienne, Paris


  Paris, oh la la, Paris.  There is no place like it in the world; I feel so alive, so blissfully happy when I'm in Paris.  

While it's lovely when we have concrete plans for the day, like going to a museum, a gallery, or shopping for something specific, some of my favorite times in Paris are when we just wonder through the streets and make wonderful discoveries.  Years ago, after strolling through the beautiful Palais Royal gardens, we passed an ornate set of wrought iron doors, we ventured inside and found ourselves in one of those covered passages.  Once upon a time there were hundreds of these wonderful shopping arcades scattered throughout Paris, now only a couple of dozens remain.



Galerie Vivienne, the prettiest of all the passages, originally named Marchoux, was built in 1823.  The name was changed to Galerie Vivienne shortly after the passage opened in 1826.  This shopping arcade was very popular with the upper class since it afforded an opportunity of shopping away from the elements, and the filth that once covered the streets.  Most of these Parisian passages had a special room near the entrance where the shoes of the patrons were scraped clean of You Know What.  Gross.


Baron Haussmann's reconstructions of Paris have contributed to the decline of Galerie Vivienne.  Most of the high-end shops that once occupied this space began to move to Place de la Madeleine, and Champs Elysses, wide avenues with grand buildings.  This once very popular arcade was not able to compete in attracting shoppers.


After years of neglect, it was restored in the 1960's and in 1974 Galerie Vivienne was classified a historical monument.  In 1986 Jean-Paul Gaultier gave G.V. a breath of fresh air by choosing it as the location for his flagship store.  



One is almost transported in time when entering this beautiful passage.  The mosaic-tiled floors, the perfectly manicured potted plants, arched doorways, reliefs on the walls, columns, and wrought iron fixtures, create a very romantic and nostalgic mood.




The light that comes through the stunning glass roof, creates changing moods, depending on the weather and the time of day.  



Galerie Vivienne is home to a few clothing shops, a wonderful book store, toy shop, a cafe and a restaurant.


Catherine Andre is my personal favorite.  I have been buying her beautiful knit pieces for years and now have a wonderful collection of sweaters, dresses, and scarves.


Each shop is beautiful and befitting its location.




This bookstore is perfect for finding that rare edition, a contemporary book, or a beautiful postcard. The owner is super helpful and pleasant.





Galerie Vivienne can be entered on:
4 rue des Petits Champs
6 rue Vivienne
5 rue de la Banque

Open Monday - Saturday 8:30 - 8:30
closed Sunday

Joanna

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