The story of the small belt of Paris
Paris is known for its history and cultural heritage. One of the prettiest hiding thing in this city is the small belt, an old railway line which was around the city, but used to be
smaller. In this article, together, we will explore the fascinating story of the small belt of Paris. And you won’t regret it !
The origins of the small belt
In 1850, during the reign of Napoleon III, the small belt of Paris was built. It aimed to make the transports of goods and passengers easier between the different stations of the city. The line was about 32 kilometers long and was used by steam trains. The construction of the small belt was an ambitious project in this century. This required the creation of tunnels, viaducts and bridges to cross the streets and the streamings of the city. The small belt was also considered as a technical feat for the time. Indeed, we were able to link different stations of Paris with great efficiency.
The disuse and the reuse of the small belt
WIth years, the small belt became less and less used, for straim trains had been replaced by the electric trains. These ones are spider and more modern. Then, in the 30s the line was almost abandoned. However, during the Second World War the small belt has more or less resumed service to transport supplies and troops across the city.
After the war, the small belt was abandoned for several decades. The rails have been removed and the vegetation has taken over the line. But, the small belt has managed to find a new function by becoming the place of choice for graffiti artists, urban explorers and lovers of history and photography.
The future of the small belt
These days, a large part of the small belt is abandoned and in ruins. Even so, the City Hall (l’Hôtel de Ville) launched an enthusiastic project to convert the line to a green space and to a pedestrian area. In this way, some parts of the small best have already been renovated and opened to the public in 8 of the capital’s 20 arrondissements. Walkers can now explore this little-known curiosity of Paris without worrying about getting lost.
The purpose of the small belt renovation project is to create a green space that would extend over the 32 kilometers of the line. Walkers could thus discover hanging gardens, relaxation areas and play areas for children. This project will also make it possible to preserve the memory of the small belt while offering a new living space to the inhabitants of Paris.
The small belt of Paris is a witness of the industrial history of the city. Its construction had been an ambitious project at that time, which allowed it to link different stations of the capital. Nowadays, the small belt is a place of ride and of discovery for everyone interested in the history of Paris and who wanted to discover the city in another way. The project of renovation of the small belt will make it possible to preserve the memory of this unknown curiosity of Paris. At the same time, the place will offer a new space of life for Parisians and a new playground for tourists.
