Rue du Paradis & the Merveilleuse Mme Hamelin

Improbable Walks, Season 6, Episode 7: This episode walks along the wonderfully-named rue du Paradis, and includes (rather hilariously) Paradise Street's intersection with Fidelity Street. We start at the Cite--look at the barely-visible 18th-century mansion in the back of the alley! Then we pause in front of the former home of Merveilleuse, Fortunée Hamelin (1776-1851) - this is Andrea Appiani's questionably accurate Portrait of her. Next, the restored interior of her beautiful home (difficult to visit but well worth it!) Then, we stroll along the rue du Paradis, once known for its crystal & ceramic shops--including this fabulous building that once belonged to the tile company of Choisy-le-Roi (also know as the Maison Hippolyte Boulenger.) The interior courtyard & lounging ladies mural give you an idea of the luxurious shops that once lined the street.