Street of the Arches

You’re now walking through a unique street that runs beneath a series of arches, giving it its name: Rue des Porches, or “Street of the Arches.”

Unlike the older medieval lanes in the heart of the old town, this street was developed in the 19th century, when many French cities, including Hyères, were tearing down their defensive walls to make room for new homes, public squares, and wider streets.

The arches you see here were a clever way to expand housing in a city that was attracting more and more aristocrats, all drawn to its sunny climate and coastal charm.

These vaulted walkways might come as a bit of a surprise, but they’re exactly what gives Rue des Porches its quirky character and undeniable charm.