The Charonne district used to be a village before becoming part of the city of Paris in 1860. It now belongs to the 20th arrondissement, and has kept the charm of the capital's old suburbs, with its cobbled streets and low-built houses. Although apartment blocks gradually sprang up in the surrounding area, the old village has managed to hold onto its rustic appeal, and you could almost forget you're in the capital. Rue Saint-Blaise in particular, with its pretty restored façades, is very attractive. In fact it used to be the village high street. Not far from there is the delightful Square des Grès, lined by charming little houses, a lovely place for a walk.
The Church of St Germain of Charonne, a listed Historic Monument, is also worth a look. Archaeological digs unearthed remains that provided an insight into the history of the area.
