Villa Olivier-Métra
Tucked away from the madding crowds in the 20th arrondissement of Paris is this small traffic free private dead-end street.
Measuring only 54 metres in length and a mere 3 metres wide but packed with colour and personality.
Quietly venture down along the cobbled stones to explore lush leafy vines, colourful shutters and quirky personal touches.
The 20th was the last arrondissement to be annexed into the City of Paris where few tourists explore except to visit the nearby, sprawling Père Lachaise Cemetery.
Yet, this area has now become a vibrant, multi-cultural and cosmopolitan area on the right bank with many delightful nooks and crannies waiting to be discovered.
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Although most of the area was once a mine for its gypsum, the parcel of land where Villa Olivier Métra sits was a vineyard dating back to the 1800’s and later subdivided to provide housing for immigrants who populated the area searching for work.
The Villa or small street is named after the Reims born composer and conductor; Olivier Métra who studied at the Paris Conservatory and later went on to compose waltzes such as Night Serenade and several ballets.
He died in Paris on 22 October 1889 at the age of 59.
What I love about this charming street apart from the cosy cottages and leafy serenity is its personal touches and the obvious humour of the residents.
The blue gate above with a sign reading that their dog is nice, however his owner is a lunatic!
And directly opposite the laneway on the red door the sign reads that their cat is under psychological therapy.
It tickled my fancy and perhaps gave a small insight into the residents playful sense of humour and spirit of community that no doubt exists in a small street full of quaint personal touches.
I hope you enjoyed our little virtual stroll down Villa Olivier-Métra and it finds a place on your list of free and off the beaten path things to do in Paris.
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Paris Adèle’s Information Nécessaire:
Villa Olivier-Métra
Access: 28 Rue Olivier Métra
Paris 75020
MAP – link opens a new page to Google Maps
Nearest Metros: Jourdain or Télégraphe
Places Nearby :
Père LachaiseThe sprawling and leafy Cemetary, Père Lachaise, is the resting place of many famous people and is a wonderful way to spend a pleasant, relaxing day.
St. Sergius Orthodox Theological InstituteHidden away on a leafy hill is the oldest Russian Orthodox Theological Institute in Western Europe.
Rue de MouzaïaOff the beaten path, Rue de Mouzaia will make you feel blessed that you discovered this secret hideaway and it’s surrounds in the 19th arrondissement.
More Paris Adèle Secrets to Discover:
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Villa Olivier-MétraPretty cottages with colourful shutters line this serene leafy path with quaint personal touches added by residents who have a playful sense of humour.
Bibliothèque Sainte-GenevièveA remarkable and historic reading room with its spectacular ceiling, books lining the vast long walls and rows of green reading lamps.
St. Sergius Orthodox Theological InstituteHidden away on a leafy hill is the oldest Russian Orthodox Theological Institute in Western Europe.
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Rue de MouzaïaOff the beaten path, Rue de Mouzaia will make you feel blessed that you discovered this secret hideaway and it’s surrounds in the 19th arrondissement.
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