Café de Flore

Café de Flore is one of the most famous cafés in Paris, France. Located at the corner of Boulevard Saint-Germain and Rue Saint-Benoît, in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area of the 6th arrondissement of Paris, it has been a popular meeting place for many notable writers, philosophers, and artists.

History

Café de Flore was established in the late 19th century, around 1887. The café's name is derived from a sculpture of the goddess Flora that stood on the opposite side of the boulevard. During the Second World War, the café was frequented by many intellectuals and artists, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, who made it their regular meeting place.

Cultural Significance

Café de Flore has played a significant role in the cultural and intellectual life of Paris. It was a hub for the existentialist movement, with Sartre and de Beauvoir often discussing their ideas there. The café has also been associated with the surrealist movement and has been frequented by many other notable figures, including Albert Camus, Truman Capote, and Pablo Picasso.

Modern Day

Today, Café de Flore remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It continues to be a symbol of the rich cultural and intellectual history of Paris. The café is known for its classic Parisian café atmosphere, with red seating, mahogany and mirrors, and a traditional menu that includes coffee, pastries, and light meals.

In Popular Culture

Café de Flore has been featured in various works of literature, film, and music. It is often depicted as a quintessential Parisian café, embodying the spirit of the city's artistic and intellectual life.

See Also

• Les Deux Magots
• Boulevard Saint-Germain
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Jean-Paul Sartre
• Simone de Beauvoir
• Existentialism