Paris, December 11, 2025 – The 5th arrondissement of Paris has recently unveiled three new literary plaques, honoring the fictional characters Astérix, Usbek, and Jack Barnes. These new installations are part of a broader initiative to celebrate literature and allow visitors and locals alike to rediscover the city through the eyes of its most iconic literary inhabitants. The plaques join an extensive literary trail that spans across various districts of the French capital.
A Growing Literary Journey Through Paris
Paris, a city steeped in history and culture, has long served as an inspiration and setting for countless literary works. The installation of these plaques aims to highlight the fictional lives and journeys of characters who have, in their own way, shaped the perception of the city. With these latest additions, the total number of literary plaques across Paris now stands at 50, creating a rich tapestry of stories intertwined with the urban landscape.
Previously, the 5th arrondissement was home to three other notable literary plaques: one dedicated to Eugène de Rastignac, the central figure in Honoré de Balzac’s novel Le Père Goriot; another for Sylvie and Jérôme from Georges Perec’s work Les Choses; and a third for Zénon, found in Marguerite Yourcenar’s L’Œuvre au noir. These existing plaques already offered a glimpse into the literary heritage of the district, and the new additions further enrich this cultural experience.
Discovering Astérix, Usbek, and Jack Barnes
Among the newly installed plaques, one commemorates Usbek, a character from Montesquieu’s seminal work, Les Lettres persanes. This plaque, located at 1 Rue de la Boutebrie, pays tribute to the Persian visitor who offered a fresh and often critical perspective on Parisian life and French customs of the 18th century. His observations provide a fascinating historical lens through which to view the city.
Another significant addition is the plaque dedicated to Jack Barnes, a character from Ernest Hemingway’s classic novel, The Sun Also Rises. This plaque has been placed on the gates of the medieval garden of the Musée de Cluny, situated on Boulevard Saint-Michel. It was on this very boulevard that Barnes, a key figure in Hemingway’s post-World War I narrative, resided, immersing himself in the vibrant intellectual and artistic scene of Paris.
Finally, near the parapet of the Petit-Pont, a plaque celebrates the beloved Gaulish warriors, Astérix and Obélix, from René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo’s comic book series, Les Lauriers de César. This particular spot holds historical significance as it marks the entry point of the two companions into Lutecia (ancient Paris), which they famously described as “the most prodigious city in the universe!” This plaque adds a touch of whimsical history to the literary trail, reminding us of the city’s ancient roots and its enduring appeal in popular culture.
A Unique Way to Experience Paris
The literary plaques offer a unique and engaging way to explore Paris, inviting both avid readers and casual tourists to connect with the city’s rich literary past. By following this trail, individuals can walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters, gaining a deeper appreciation for the interplay between fiction and reality in one of the world’s most celebrated cities. The initiative not only promotes literature but also encourages a more immersive and imaginative form of urban exploration.
The expansion of this literary pathway underscores Paris’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage, ensuring that the stories and characters that have defined its identity continue to inspire future generations. The plaques serve as subtle yet powerful reminders of the profound impact literature has had on shaping the city’s narrative and charm.
