A massive fire broke out overnight on Monday, October 12, 2026, and destroyed the iconic Marché des Enfants Rouges in Paris, the city's oldest covered food market. The blaze, which started at 3 am, gutted the iron and glass roof and torched all 17 food stalls. Despite the efforts of over 150 firefighters who battled the flames for over two hours, the market was completely destroyed. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
The Marché des Enfants Rouges, founded in 1615 during the reign of Louis XIII, was a beloved institution in Paris, offering fresh produce and specialties from around the world. The market was a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and its destruction has left many in shock and grief. Vendors, including Ahmed Ouaddi, whose Moroccan couscous stall had been a fixture of the market for decades, were left to mourn the loss of their livelihoods.
The market's destruction has also sparked an outpouring of support from city officials and the community. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire thanked the firefighters for their efforts and promised to find a temporary relocation for the traders so they could resume their business as soon as possible. Serge Papin, the minister for small businesses and tourism, also pledged to support the reconstruction efforts.
The Marché des Enfants Rouges was more than just a market - it was a symbol of the neighborhood's history and culture. Founded in 1615, it was the oldest covered market still in operation in Paris. The market owed its name to a nearby 16th-century orphanage whose young residents wore red clothing, a symbol of Christian charity at the time.
The market's destruction has also raised questions about the city's preparedness and response to emergencies. Some residents questioned why the fire brigade did not receive a call until over an hour after the fire broke out, and why it was not possible to save at least part of the structure. The nearest fire station is located just minutes away, but the layout of the market, surrounded by buildings on all sides and accessible only through narrow alleyways, made it difficult for firefighters to access.
Despite the devastation, there is a sense of resilience and determination among the vendors and community. Alexis Abbou, the market's manager, vowed to rebuild and restore the market to its former glory. Ariel Weil, mayor of the third arrondissement, also promised to support the reconstruction efforts and restore the market to its former glory.
The French state has pledged to support the reconstruction efforts, with Serge Papin, the minister for small businesses and tourism, saying that the state would "stand alongside Paris City Hall to help with reconstruction". The city's mayor, Emmanuel Grégoire, also promised to find a temporary relocation for the traders so they could resume their business as soon as possible.
Key points
- The Marché des Enfants Rouges was ranked fifth worldwide for street food this year by Food & Wine magazine.
- The market was a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique and authentic Parisian experience.
- The cause of the fire is still unknown, and an investigation is underway.
