Café Procope

A historic café that became a meeting place for intellectuals during a significant period in France.

Café Procope is a café located in Paris, established in the early 18th century. During the French Revolution, it served as a gathering spot for philosophers, writers, and political thinkers, who engaged in discussions about revolutionary ideas and reforms. The café was frequented by notable figures such as Voltaire and Rousseau, contributing to its reputation as a center of intellectual exchange. Its role during this time reflected the growing influence of public opinion and the importance of discourse in shaping revolutionary thought.

Café Procope, established in 1686 by Sicilian chef Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, holds a significant place in the history of the French Revolution. Located in the heart of Paris, it quickly became a hub for intellectuals and revolutionaries alike. During the 18th century, the café was frequented by many notable figures, including Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot. It provided a conducive environment for the exchange of radical ideas and political discourse.

The café's atmosphere (marked by an eclectic mix of patrons such as artists, writers, and politicians) played a crucial role in the dissemination of revolutionary ideas. It was one of the primary gathering spots for members of the Jacobin Club, a political group that emerged during the Revolution. Members like Maximilien Robespierre and Jean-Paul Marat often discussed their strategies within its walls.

In addition to being a meeting place for political figures, Café Procope was also notable for its collection of newspapers and pamphlets. Patrons had access to the latest news, which fueled discussions on current events and revolutionary activities. The availability of diverse printed materials (ranging from political pamphlets to literary works) made it a center for enlightenment thinking.

During the turbulent years of the Revolution, Café Procope saw a shift in its clientele. By the late 1780s, it had become synonymous with political agitation and fervor. Revolutionary leaders and their supporters used the venue to plan and debate critical events, such as the fall of the Bastille on 14 July 1789. The café's role in these events underscores its importance as more than just a place for coffee; it was a space where the seeds of revolutionary change were sown and nurtured.

As the Revolution progressed, Café Procope continued to be a witness to history. It bore silent witness to the Reign of Terror and the subsequent rise and fall of various political factions. Even Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have visited the café during his early years in Paris. The establishment's ability to survive through these turbulent times speaks to its adaptability and significance in French society.

Today, Café Procope remains a testament to its storied past. Its rich history is intertwined with the French Revolution, making it an essential landmark for those interested in this transformative period.

Did you know?

Café Procope, established in 1686 (by Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli), is often regarded as the oldest café in Paris and became a vital meeting place for revolutionaries and intellectuals during the French Revolution.
Voltaire, the famous Enlightenment writer and philosopher, was a frequent patron of Café Procope, where he would engage in discussions that shaped revolutionary thought.
The café was famed for its eclectic menu featuring dishes from various French regions; it is said to have popularized the dish known as 'Potage de la Révolution' during the revolutionary period.
Café Procope was not only a café but also a hub for political agitation; it hosted heated debates and discussions that fueled revolutionary fervor among its patrons.
The café's ambiance, adorned with portraits of revolutionaries and the aesthetic of the time, made it a popular spot for plotting against the monarchy, often referred to as a 'salon of revolutionaries'.