The Galerie Vivienne is one of the most exclusive and ornate of Paris's passages, having opened its doors in 1826. It can be found in the very heart of Paris, not far from the gardens of the Palais Royal. The idea of building the passage belonged to the President of the Chamber of Notaries of the time, Maître Marchoux, and his ambition was for the Galerie Vivienne to become the most beautiful passage in the city. He evidently succeeded, as it definitely has no peers in terms of its sophistication. Its pillars, arcs and cornices are decorated with the most diverse symbols of success, including laurel wreaths, palms, wheat sheaves and horns of plenty, while the splendid floor mosaic was ordered from Italy.
Today, the Galerie Vivienne hosts various art galleries, shops, cafés and restaurants. Among them are the charming little toy shop Si Tu Veux, the 20th century art bookshop Lettres et Images and the stylish Belize, Odette et Zoe, which sells accessories from throughout the world. Le Marelle is a vintage fashion treasure chest with a truly outstanding collection and with new additions almost daily. There's also the famous wine bar and gourmet shop Legard Filles et Fils. While a lot has changed over the years and the atmosphere at the Galerie Vivienne may not be quite as relaxed as it was long ago - in other words, the spirit of the big city outside has inescapably entered the little village - it is still continues to be a wonderful stop-off point for inspiration, as well as a great place for finding unusual gifts.
Galerie Vivienne - 4 rue des Petits-Champs, 5, rue de la Banque Gallerie Colbert - 6, rue des Petits - Champs, 6, rue Vivienne
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