Post by kerouac2 on Aug 6, 2017 12:34:07 GMT
Les Grands Voisins is a, let's call it a project, that has existed for the last 3 years on the grounds of the old Saint Vincent de Paul hospital since it closed in 2012. Like all hospitals in Paris, it covers quite a large area and consists of at least 20 buildings. I have not fully investigated how the current use of the space began or even how the name 'Les Grands Voisins' (the big neighbours) came into being. Since I rarely set foot on the Left Bank, I had not paid much attention to this place, although there have been a few reports about it in the media. I was not thinking about it at all yesterday as I walked to a rendezvous with a friend, but then suddenly there it was on avenue Denfert-Rochereau, and I had to check it out.
Since everything is going to be torn down... next year? in 3 years? at some unspecified time? the buildings are in decline, but that is part of the charm. I did read that the space was one of the areas considered for building the new Palais de Justice in Paris (the main courthouse, currently found on the Ile de la Cité but now nearing completion in the 17th arrondissement). In the end, it will almost certainly become a new neighbourhood of social and private housing after demolition of the buildings.
There is a "come one, come all'" atmosphere at the entrance, unlike some places with a narrow door and a guard. (Actually, there was a guard post, but the guard was clearly not worried about anything.)
The current users redecorate the buildings at will, as is their wont.
There are shops, bars, pottery workshops, restaurants, stages, theatres, cinemas all in joyous anarchy.
I should probably mention that this place is only open in the 'warm' months. Also, it closes at 23:00 every night since people are living in some of the buildings.
There is a campground, a mini hostel, a micro brewery...
Back here is the entrance to a foyer for African migrants in one of the derelict buildings.
Accommodations are clearly not luxurious, but a roof over one's head and some basic plumbing are probably greatly appreciated.
This is the full map of the complex.
This building is also full of residents.
"Who's cooking this week?" -- the menus for the coming week are not yet posted.
Today there were 3 food windows in operation with varied menus.
There is also a place to recycle furniture.
And this is the old hospital entrance that you see when you walk by without paying attention.
As there was some music yesterday, I made a small video.