The best Paris markets: Georges Brassens Book Market

In the City of Light, you can find many interesting markets from the Flower market to the most famous flea market in the world. If you are a bookworm, then you will be more than happy to know that there is also a market especially dedicated to the old and used books. Founded in 1987 and situated next to the Georges-Brassens park, in the Parisian 15th district, this market, also known as the Georges Brassens Book Market, is a weekly meeting place for some fifty booksellers and many book lovers. This market is held only on Saturdays and Sundays in the beautiful 19th-century pavilion, and it is definitely worth visiting.    

The Georges Brassens Book Market, Paris

104 Rue Brancion, 75015 Paris, France

History

At the beginning of the 19th century, the abattoir for cattle, sheep and horses was settled in the Parisian district named Vaugirard. Constructed between 1896 and 1904, this abattoir was built on the land of ancient vineyards in the Baltard style by the architect Ernest Moreau. In 1976, the abattoir was finally closed, and it was almost completely demolished between 1978 and 1985. Today, only three buildings of the ancient abattoir are preserved, as well as the monumental entrance to the former horse market and few statues. In 1987, a market dedicated to the old and used books was opened under two ancient horse halls. Named after Georges Brassens, a French singer who lived in the neighborhood, this more than unique book market, situated in the remains of the abattoir of Vaugirard, became immediately very famous among the book lovers. 

Books

Every Saturday and Sunday, you can stroll the Georges Brassens Book Market along the charming aisles full of books. At this market, you will find a wide selection of books - from old manuscripts, original editions, the complete works of Molière, art books, comics, encyclopedias, children's books and even contemporary books that are no longer available in the libraries. Also, this is a place where you can get some posters, drawings, magazines, old paper and good old vinyl. Every bookseller has its own specialty. Some of them are specialized in history and others in science, religion or even poetry. So, take your time and get into a passionate talk about books but also literature or even philosophy. The books and other items can be very cheap, but some of them are much more expensive. My advice is - do not hesitate to bargain! 

Practical information

The Georges Brassens Book Market, dedicated to old and used books, is held every week on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 6 pm. This book market also organises meetings and exhibitions in the presence of artists, writers and publishers. The access is free of charge.