« Today the opening of large streets with lines too straight for the artist’s eye but se comforting for pedestrians, enables us to walk carefree for a long time. There is non need to worry about losing one’s way and having constantly to enquire of local errand-boy and gracious greengrocers’ as to the right direction.
This is a real blessing to gave plenty of space and go along the road without listening or looking at anything – yet as pleasant as this way of day-dreaming may be it doesn’t prevent you from absorbing the sights and sounds of the city. »

George Sand

“The Grands Boulevards” what a magical word, glowing, shining, illuminating the whole world, attracting friends and admirers from all over. These are one of the most glorious achievements of Paris.

Léo Clarétie

“The Grands Boulevards! So much life in two words”, marvels André Warnod.