The historic Jewish quarter is found in the charming preserved district of the Marais especially around the rue des Rosiers. The walk brings to life the fascinating history of the Jewish population that has lived in France for more than 2000 years. In between persecutions and forced exiles, there have been periods that have consecrated the Jewish community as one of the most important and active in culture, politics, and business.
The tour presents places that often go unrecognized, from large synagogues to small hidden oratories, private mansions, typical streets and, of course, places of remembrance, followed by a reflection on the current status of the French Jewish community.
Jewish Marais
Description
Jewish Marais
Practical Informations
• Meeting Point: Métro Saint Paul (line 1)
• Duration : 2h
• Walk
• Private tour at any date (300€/group)
• Synagogue entry fee: 6€/person
The Marais maintains a vibrant, although shrinking, Jewish presence. Known for its Sunday shopping, narrow cobble-stone streets, fallafel and Middle Eastern restaurants and pastry shops, the Marais is a unique neighborhood that celebrates its diversity.
One needs only to walk the streets of Rue des Rosier and Rue Pavée (famous as the first paved road in Paris) to experience the active Jewish community. Even though many Jews now live in other parts of Paris, the Jewish Marais is still at the center of the community.
Jewish history in France stretches back more than 2,000 years. Between exactions and mere tolerance throughout Medieval times, the Jews were exiled at the end of the 14th century.
The French Revolution is a turning point, giving the Jews for the first time in the world, full citizenship and rights. The nineteenth century is a century of expansion for the community with a Jewish elite emerging. “Happy like a Jew in France” becomes a common saying.
Despite tragedies the Jewish community of France remains the third largest in the world.
Gentrification and rising rents in the Marais have had a significant impact. During the past 2 years, a number of “mom and pop” Jewish grocery stores, religious shops and delicatessens have been converted to high-fashion boutiques, bars and restaurants. Although inevitable, it has resulted in local tension and changed the complexion of the neighborhood.
Fortunately, the City of Paris keeps an eye and refrains from drastic and unmitigated commercialism.
New Jewish restaurants have opened in recent years. The tour will show other places, a bit hidden from the tourist eye. Many symbols of a vibrant community.
Hence, the Jewish traditions continue to prosper and evolve.
