Discover the Oldest Market in Paris

Marché des Enfants Rouges

Photo from Paris Vox

The Marché des Enfants Rouges is the oldest covered market in Paris, located at 39 Rue de Bretagne in the artsy and lively quartier of le Marais. Its name, which means “Market of the Red Children”, originates from the 16th century orphanage that used to occupy the site, whose children used to wear red uniforms.

It was established as a market by Louis XIII in 1615 and it became a hub of life in le Marais. However, in the 1990s, the Mayor made plans to tear the historical site down to turn it into a parking complex. The residents of the area came together to protect the market, some even chaining themselves to the front gate in protest. After six years of abandonment, the residents triumphed and the market was renovated and reopened in 2000, and it now remains one of the most popular markets in Paris.

Photo by @jooklin (instagram)

The market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, bread and flowers, as well as authentic, homemade dishes ready to sample at the market or takeaway. We recommend visiting the Moroccan food stall and trying the pastillas, a traditional Moroccan meat pie which is usually made with chicken and a hint of warming cinnamon.

Address: 39 rue de Bretagne, 75003

Opening times: Tuesday to Thursday 8:30am – 1pm, 4pm – 7:30pm
                            Friday and Saturday 8:30am – 1pm, 4pm – 8pm
                            Sundays 8:30am – 2pm

Nearest metro: Filles du Calvaire or Saint Sébastien Froissart