On Sunday, September 8th, our group will experience a guided tour of the amazing Paris flea markets. With over 1,700 merchants, the market, also known as "Marche Aux Puces," is named the largest and most-well known antique market in Paris.
To learn more about this year's IDS trip to Paris, click here.
The history behind the first antique flea market dates back to 1870. After the Franco-Prussian war, men on the streets would gather any scraps of items to sell. Known as "street grubbers," their findings were often rubbish and garbage. In 1885, the people wanted to do away with the market scene and "cleanse" the area. The merchants tried even harder to sell their items to pay for the right to keep their spots on the streets.
After the World Wars, the area surrounding the market was purchased and developed with roads, electricity, and running water. Soon, the markets became a popular place to be. Restaurants, cafes, and bistros were built creating a scene that was more desirable. Between 1946-1991, twelve more vendors joined the strip and at that point, the first antique flea market was established.
Although the strip is called a "flea market," the items for sale are antiques with character and history. The market fills streets, alleys, steps, and storefronts with antique treasures such as home decor, clothing, and jewelry. Guided tours are led through the streets to learn about the history of the market, the merchants, and the items for sale. If you want to bring home one-of-a-kind souvenirs, this will be the place for you! Walking the streets of a market is something that has a a become a "must-do" on one's trip to Paris.
To sign up for this year's IDS trip to Paris, click here.