Ruelle des Chats

The Ruelle des Chats, or Cat Alley, is one of the most charming and famous streets in the old town of Troyes, located in the Champagne region of France.⸻🏛️ History & Architecture
• Medieval origins: The alley dates back to the 15th century and was rebuilt after a major fire in 1524.
• Why the name “Cat Alley”?: The houses are built so that their upper floors almost lean against each other. It is said that a cat could jump from one roof to the other — hence the name.
• Typical half-timbering: The street is paved with a gutter in the middle for rainwater, and the houses are half-timbered with wooden beams that stabilize the whole.⸻🌆 Atmosphere & charm
• Romantic appearance: The narrow passage and leaning facades create a mysterious, almost fairytale-like atmosphere. • Reconstruction: In 2014, several half-timbered houses were rebuilt based on old prints and photos.
• Preserved thanks to heritage protection: In the 1960s, the street was saved from demolition by the efforts of heritage organisations and Minister André Malraux.

Fun facts & legends
• In 1789, the police wanted to put up fences because the alley was notorious as a meeting place for lovers.
• A local legend tells of a pregnant woman who was miraculously saved when a wall “moved aside” in front of her belly.
• The street is also said to have played a role during epidemics: the many cats helped keep rat populations under control.Why visit?
• Very photogenic: One of the most photographed places in Troyes – often featured on postcards.
• Historic and romantic: Perfect for those who love medieval towns and hidden gems.
• Nearby: You’ll also find cozy cafés and a cat café (“Troyes Petits Chats”), plus a pretty courtyard called Cour du Mortier d’Or and the Jardin Juvénal-des-Ursins.

If you go through this narrow alley you will come to a number of restaurants.