Metro-Expo-Resto-Belleville
“métro, Expo, Resto”
Break out of the mould of “métro, boulot, dodo” (a French expression that, translated literally, means “Métro, work, sleep”) and get ready for “Métro, expo, resto”, as Babylangues introduces you to a new way of exploring the Paris Métro system. Join us in our quest to discover the various stations dotted across the city. How did they get their name? What are the surrounding neighbourhoods like? What can be found nearby? Some many questions and Babylangues has all the answers! Have a read of what’s on around Belleville…
Belleville
This month we’ll be making a stop at Belleville metro! Well-situated at the edges of the 10th, 11th, 19th and 20th arrondissements, Belleville is not quite a touristic part of town. However, get ready to discover some of the attractions of this neighbourhood.
Interestingly, Belleville serves the shortest metro line (11) and one of the oldest (2). Recently in 2015, the Council of Paris voted to change the name of the station to Belleville – Commune de Paris 1871. This was to honour the events of the Paris Commune; a bloody period in Paris’ history where the residents of the outer neighbourhoods were significant revolutionaries.
What Is There To Do Nearby?
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
This church sits in the courtyard of the Les Halles shopping centre and is certainly an impressive sight. It started off as a small chapel to Saint Agnes in the 13th century, then was gradually expanded and built over to become the size that it is today. From the outside you can see a number of architectural techniques to support the weight of the towers of the church. Interestingly enough, the church has elements of a mixture of styles: Roman, Gothic and Renaissance.
- Père Lachaise cemetery
A cemetery is usually not someplace you’d like to visit, but Père Lachaise really is something to behold. Many famous French figures such as Edith Piaf, Balzac and Chopin are buried here. But there are also internationals like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde. For the tombs of the wealthy, there are often interesting sculptures or design features to look at!
- Parc de Belleville
Not quite as picturesque as the Buttes-Chaumont, but this hilly park offers panoramic views over Paris. And it’s a great place for picnics in the summer.
Discover more metro stations HERE.
Rue Dénoyez, 20e arrondissement de Paris, France
