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Origin and history

The Beauvau Market is an iconic covered market in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, built in 1843 by architect Marc-Gabriel Jolivet on the Place d'Aligre. It replaces a first market erected in 1779 by Samson-Nicolas Lenoir on lands ceded by the nuns of Saint-Antoine Abbey, with the permission of Louis XVI. This project was part of a broader restructuring of the neighbourhood, including the creation of streets converging towards the Place d'Aligre and the expansion of existing market infrastructures.

The current market, with its guardhouse, has been designed to meet the growing needs of the Parisian population for fresh produce. He owes his name, Beauvau-Saint-Antoine, to Gabrielle-Charlotte de Beauvau-Craon, last abbesse of the Abbey Saint-Antoine (1760-1790), in tribute to his role in local history. The building, dedicated to agricultural products (meat, fish, vegetables, cheeses), is distinguished by its interior structure: two main paths crossing at right angles around a central fountain, supplemented by secondary alleys.

However, the Beauvau market suffered a major fire on the night of July 6, 2015, probably of electric origin, and damaged part of its structure. Despite this event, it remains a living place of Parisian heritage, integrated into the daily lives of the inhabitants and traders of the neighborhood. Its architecture and history reflect the evolution of Parisian markets, from their religious origins to their present role in urban life.

The Place d'Aligre, where the market is located, also hosts a daily outdoor market (except Monday), strengthening its status as a historical trade and social hub. The coexistence of these two trading spaces illustrates the continuity of business practices since the 18th century, while adapting infrastructure to modern needs. The Beauvau market, owned by the commune, continues to play a central role in the local food supply and in preserving the architectural heritage of Paris.

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