Our grand tour of the hidden, leafy villages of Paris continues with a visit to the Mouzaïa district. Perched on the heights of Paris, above the Parc des Buttes Chaumont, the Mouzaïa district is a marvel of luxury, calm and pleasure.
The neighborhood's 250 houses were built in 1879 onformer gypsum quarries, hence the steepness of the cobblestone streets. In fact, it was to accommodate the quarry workers that the district was born. At the time, a treaty was signed between the City of Paris and the owners of the land, stipulating that the houses would consist of a first floor and one storey only. That's why today, La Mouzaïa has the charming appearance of a small country village.
Colorful brick villas and cottages line pedestrian-only lanes. No cars, no superfluous noise. Everywhere, trees, flowering gardens, lampposts that seem to have stepped out of another century, little birds singing in one corner, cats strolling quietly in another... A real little paradise in the heart of Paris!
Stroll through the labyrinth of alleys and cul-de-sacs, and you're bound to come across an astonishing house, a fragrant flower or a local who'll be delighted to tell you all about the history of the area. In a word: relax!
