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| An Old Narrow Paris Street |
In ancient times, streets were built narrow to limit an invading army's mobility. Small numbers of defenders could barricade these narrow streets and more readily defend them. Additionally, the winding roads made it difficult for foreigners to navigate, which I can attest.
Right after I finished 9th grade I visited France, Monaco, and Italy for a school trip. I had previously lived in Germany and visited France several times with my parents but we never got down to Paris. I was actually left behind in a restaurant by my group while in Paris. When I attempted to find them I ended up getting lost in these confusing streets. Everything looked the same. Luckily I found a ritzy hotel and was given free drinks as the hotel manager contacted the hotel my tour group was staying.
These streets are neat. I love old city layouts provided driving isn't required.
These narrow streets ended up backfiring on the French rulers. During the French Revolution, revolutionaries would blockade the streets preventing French troops from responding to rioters and mobs. Modernization had begun prior to the Revolution by Louis XIV to improve sanitation and better handle the increasing population. Obviously, it was not enough for Louis XVI to keep his head. Later, during the reign of Napoleon III, city streets were widened which allowed troops to better respond to any unruly mobs.
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| Post Renovation Paris Road |
Although it is better for economic and sanitation reasons, I still prefer the look of the old Parisian architecture seen in the first picture. I like the old windy cobblestone roads (used as weapons by revolutionaries) and how each building is unique, the result of shoddy city planning. The buildings and roads built during the Haussmann renovation look the same on a straight road. It is a little boring.
Picture Sources:
http://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photography-narrow-street-near-montmartre-paris-fran-image23245822
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haussmann's_renovation_of_Paris#The_debate_about_the_military_purposes_of_Haussmann.27s_boulevards
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