Mètre Étalon: A Piece of Metric History
Discover the Mètre Étalon in Paris: a surviving piece of revolutionary history and the original standard for metric measurement.
The Mètre Étalon, located at 36 Rue de Vaugirard in Paris, is one of the original sixteen standard meters installed in the city in the late 18th century to familiarize the public with the new metric system. Today, it is one of only two remaining and the only one still at its original location, offering a tangible link to the French Revolution's efforts to standardize measurement.
A brief summary to Mètre étalon
- 36 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, 75006, FR
Local tips
- The Mètre Étalon is easy to miss, so keep a close eye out for it on the wall next to number 36.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the Rue de Vaugirard, the longest street in Paris.
- Visit the nearby Jardin du Luxembourg to extend your exploration of the area.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Mètre Étalon is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 12 to the Rennes or Saint-Placide station. From either station, it's a short walk to 36 Rue de Vaugirard. A single metro ticket costs €2.50.
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Walking
From the Jardin du Luxembourg, walk southwest on Rue de Vaugirard for approximately 5 minutes. The Mètre Étalon is located on the right side of the street, affixed to a building wall. No costs are involved.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at 36 Rue de Vaugirard. Taxi fares in Paris start at €4.10, with additional charges per kilometer. A short trip from a nearby landmark, such as the Panthéon, will likely cost between €8 and €12.
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