Rarely this quiet - Rue de l'Abreuvoir

Few Paris streets are photographed as often as Rue de l'Abreuvoir in Montmartre. Climbing gently towards the Sacré-Cœur, its cobbled surface, old houses and stone walls preserve the atmosphere of the village that Montmartre once was, long before it became part of Paris in 1860.

The street takes its name from an old abreuvoir, a watering place where horses and other animals could drink. In the days when Montmartre stood outside the city walls, this would have been a practical stopping point for farmers, traders and carts travelling through the village.

Finding Rue de l'Abreuvoir as quiet as it appears here is unusual. Most days, photographers, artists and visitors gather along its length, many hoping to capture one of Paris's most recognisable street scenes.

Following Rue de l'Abreuvoir uphill brings you to La Maison Rose, one of Montmartre's most recognisable buildings. Opened in the early 20th century and immortalised by Maurice Utrillo, its pale pink façade has become almost as famous as the street itself.

“The streets of Paris are best explored without hurry — they reveal themselves only to the unhurried.”

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Part of the “Streets of Paris” Series

Each Saturday, we wander through the streets of Paris — tracing light, texture, and the quiet poetry of daily life.

Browse the full series

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