Did you know that? At the Tortues, why does the Paul Haussmann have an unusual façade?

The Maison Aux Tortues, located at the corner of boulevard Haussmann and rue Tronchet, is a historic store founded by Leonidas Garland between 1861 and 1864. Specializing in the sale of ivory and tortoise shell objects, it has now been replaced by a branch of the well-known bakery chain, Paul. The storefront dating from 1910 is listed as a Historic Monument since August 6, 1975 and classified on May 23, 1984.

During the Second Empire, elites and artists were fascinated by objects of Asian and African inspiration. The Garland brothers, who ran an import business, traded with the French colonies and selected various artifacts for the Maison Aux Tortues. The store offered decorative items, brushes, combs, fans and other accessories that would appeal to the elegant women of the Belle Epoque.

In 1910, the façade of the Maison Aux Tortues was given its current appearance, with a highly elaborate bronze decorative program, featuring abundant garlands, elephant heads and turtle shells. The painted and engraved glass decorations repeat this bestiary evocative of the goods offered.

• To be read
• Did you know? Why does the McD's in Saint-Lazare have the façade of an Alsatian house?
• Did you know that? The Castel Béranger is one of the emblematic buildings of Art Nouveau in Paris
• Tips for the week of April 29 - May 5, 2024 in Paris: free or inexpensive outings

However, elephant ivory and Caret tortoise shell, products of the hunting of endangered species, were progressively banned from trade from the 1960s. The European regulations are reinforced to fight against the illegal trade and the preservation of the fauna.

The Turtles store closed in the 1990's, and a subsidiary of Paul' s bakeries took over the shop while ensuring the conservation and restoration of this intriguing façade. Thus, the historic front of the Turtle House continues to attract the attention of passers-by and history buffs, while housing a branch of Paul's Bakery.

In short, the Maison Aux Tortues is a testament to the past and history of Paris. Although the original store has disappeared, Paul's bakery has preserved the memory of this place by preserving its historic front and integrating it harmoniously with its sign. So the next time you pass by this Paul's branch, be sure to look up.