The Grand Chatelet, the medieval fortress defending the access to the Grand Pont and the Ile de la Cité, also the seat of royal power, was destroyed in 1808 under Napoleon’s order. In 1862, the elegant square and the sumptuous Theatre du Chatelet were built up and inaugurated on its old location. From the 12th to the 20th century, the neighborhood was bustling with activity. The proximity of the Halles, the great central market and the « belly of Paris » has made the district the most crowded in the capital. Monet, Cortes Laloue, Luce remind us with great prowess.

Market and Fountain of Innocents, anonym

The market, fountain of Innocents, John James Chalon, 1822, Carnavalet

inside the central halls, 1872, anonym

Monet, rue montorgueil, 1878

Edouard Leon Cortes, rue de rivoli

Galien Laloue, the stock market and St Eustache, rue de la Coquillere

Maximilien Luce, roadworks in Reaumur street, 1896

Maximilien Luce, roadworks in Reaumur street, 1896

Maximilien Luce

The Halls, 6 a.m., anonym

Mathilde du Monceau, The Paris’ halls

Mentor Huebner, The halls, 1961