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Origin and history

The Bourg-l-Abbé pass is a Parisian covered passage located in the 2nd arrondissement, between Rue Saint-Denis and Rue de Palestro. Built in 1828 by architect Auguste Lusson, it is part of a popular and modest neighbourhood, today marked by a certain stamp despite its sleeping appearance. Originally, he linked the rue du Bourg-l.

The passage underwent major changes in the mid-19th century, notably during the drilling of the Boulevard de Sevastopol and the rue de Turbigo in 1854, which had been amputated by several metres. The east entrance, opening on the street of Palestro, was rebuilt by architect Henri Blondel, also known for the Stock Exchange. It is decorated with two cariatides carved by Aimé Millet, symbolizing commerce and industry, while a hive on the keystone evokes economic activity.

Between 1980 and 2000, the passage went through a period of abandonment, with its shops serving as warehouses. A renovation in 2003 allowed it to revitalize, with the installation of new shops. Today, there is still a testimony of Parisian covered passages, characteristic of 19th century urban planning, although less frequented than others such as the passage of the Panoramas or the Jouffroy passage.

The Bourg-l-Abbé pass has been partially listed as a Historic Monument since 1991, with the protection of its floor, glass roof and interior façades. Its architecture, marked by arcades on two levels and a slightly curved glass roof, reflects the style of the covered passages of the era, designed to house shops and houses in the basement.

Its name comes from a village called Bourg-l This passage, though modest, illustrates the urban evolution of Paris under Haussmann, between preservation and radical transformations. Its west entrance, on Rue Saint-Denis, contrasts with its simplicity with the most monumental entrance, highlighting the successive adaptations of the site.

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