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Rotonde de la Villette: A Neoclassical Landmark

Explore the Rotonde de la Villette, a neoclassical landmark in Paris's 19th arrondissement, offering history, culture, and stunning canal views.

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The Rotonde de la Villette, a neoclassical rotunda in Paris's 19th arrondissement, is a remnant of the Wall of the Farmers-General, a fiscal barrier built in the late 18th century. Designed by architect Claude Nicolas Ledoux, it once served as a customs house where taxes were collected on goods entering Paris. Today, it stands as a historical monument and a vibrant space for Parisians and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Rotonde de la Villette

  • Pl. de la Bataille de Stalingrad, Paris, 75019, FR
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Local tips

  • Take the metro to Stalingrad (lines 2, 5, and 7) or Jaurès (lines 2, 5, and 7bis) for easy access.
  • Enjoy a stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin and Canal de l'Ourcq after visiting the Rotonde.
  • Visit during the summer to experience the Paris Plages event at the Bassin de la Villette.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gare du Nord, take Metro line 5 towards Bobigny-Pablo Picasso and get off at Stalingrad station. The Rotonde de la Villette is a short walk from the station. A single metro ticket costs €2.10.

  • Walking

    From Place de Clichy, walk along Boulevard de Clichy and then turn onto Rue de Maubeuge. Continue onto Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin, then turn left onto Quai de Valmy. Cross the canal and continue onto Place de la Bataille-de-Stalingrad, where the Rotonde de la Villette is located. The walk is approximately 3.3 km and takes around 40 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the Louvre Museum, a taxi or ride-share to the Rotonde de la Villette typically costs between €15 and €20, depending on traffic, and takes approximately 20 minutes.

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Discover more about Rotonde de la Villette

The Rotonde de la Villette, located on Place de la Bataille-de-Stalingrad, is a remarkable example of neoclassical architecture and a significant historical landmark in Paris. Constructed between 1784 and 1788 by architect Claude Nicolas Ledoux, the rotunda was part of the Wall of the Farmers-General, a 24-kilometer-long wall built to collect taxes on goods entering Paris. The wall was unpopular among Parisians, but the Rotonde de la Villette, also known as the Barrière Saint-Martin, stands as one of the few remaining tollgates of this wall. Originally, the Rotonde served as the headquarters for controllers, receivers, guards, and riders who oversaw the flow of goods and monitored warehouses. After the French Revolution, the building was repurposed as a salt storehouse and later as a barracks for the municipal guard. In 1907, it was designated a Historical Monument, recognizing its architectural and historical importance. The Rotonde has survived many challenges, including a fire in the mid-1930s and demolition threats during the construction of Metro Line 2. Today, the Rotonde de la Villette has been renovated and transformed into a multifaceted space. Visitors can enjoy Italian flavors at the Trattoria, relax on the vast sunny terrace overlooking the Bassin de la Villette, explore contemporary art exhibitions at the Gallery, and dance the night away at the Mini-Club. The building also houses bars, a florist, a shop, games, and a co-working space, making it a vibrant hub for cultural and social activities. The Place de la Bataille-de-Stalingrad, where the Rotonde is located, was redesigned in 1988 by architect Bernard Huet and features a pool with fountains and a bronze statue.

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