When you pass by Haussmanian-style buildings with their large front doors that are actually portes cochères (carriage gates into a central courtyard), look at the bottom sides of those entryways.
See those metal pieces fixed to the sides? They are chasse-roues, wheel guards. They helped protect the walls and doors from bangs and dings by the large carriage wheels. The guards directed the carriages into a straight courtyard entry, preventing swerves into the walls. Remember that there were no sidewalks at that time and passersby were at risk from these lurching, swerving carriages. Most are made of metal, but some are guardstones. Once you’re aware of historic feature, you’ll notice them all over Paris in a variety of shapes and designs.
Plain:
Ornate:
Round:
Oblong:
Pastry-shaped:;
Guard Stone:
Stone and metal:
Other Shapes:
and one of my favorites:
a firehouse chasse-roue!
Can you pictures carriages arriving and departing?
Cynthia Tuttelman (aka "Tut") is a writer, family doctor and quilter who lives in Northern California and part-time each year in Paris, France. Follow along and explore the wonders of Paris.