French Concession
Shanghai Shi
The Shanghai French Concession was a foreign concession established in 1849 and lasted until 1943, becoming one of Shanghai's most prestigious residential and commercial districts. Originating as a modest area around the northern Old City, it expanded significantly through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, eventually encompassing a much larger territory. The district is renowned for its distinctive architecture, featuring a mix of European-style villas, shikumen houses, and apartment buildings, reflecting its cosmopolitan past. It was a center of Catholicism in China, with significant French Jesuit influence visible in churches, schools, and hospitals. The area also attracted a diverse population, including foreign nationals, wealthy Chinese residents, and White Russian émigrés after the Russian Revolution. Despite redevelopment, the French Concession retains its unique charm, characterized by its tree-lined avenues, especially the iconic London plane trees introduced in the early 1900s. Today, it is a popular tourist destination celebrated for its cultural heritage, vibrant commercial streets, and historical significance as a symbol of Shanghai's colonial era.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Shanghai French Concession is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the iconic plane trees are most picturesque. Visitors are advised to explore on foot or by bicycle to fully appreciate the area's historic streets and architecture. Tickets are generally not required for wandering the district, but guided tours can enhance understanding of its rich history. Booking tours or cultural experiences in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and seniors at certain museums or cultural sites within the district.
Faits intéressants
- •The French Concession introduced London plane trees to Shanghai in 1902, now widely planted across China and known locally as 'French plane' trees.
- •It was a major center of Catholicism in China, hosting numerous churches, schools, and religious institutions established by French Jesuits.
- •After the Russian Revolution, many White Russian refugees settled in the French Concession, contributing to its vibrant cultural life.
- •During the 1937 Battle of Shanghai, the French Concession was mistakenly bombed twice by Chinese forces, resulting in hundreds of casualties.
- •The concession's police force recruited many officers from French Indochina, reflecting its colonial connections.
Histoire
The French Concession was established on April 6, 1849, following the First Opium War and the signing of unequal treaties that granted foreign powers concessions in China.
Initially a small area south of the Old City moat, it expanded in 1861 and again in 1899-1900, doubling its size.
In 1914, further expansion included the so-called extra-settlement roads, significantly increasing its area and administrative control.
Throughout the early 20th century, the Concession developed into Shanghai's premier residential district, attracting foreigners and affluent Chinese alike.
Its administration was overseen by a municipal council and the French Consul.
The concession ended in 1943 when France relinquished its rights under pressure during World War II, and the territory was integrated into Shanghai's municipal governance.
Guide du lieu
Avenue Joffre (Huaihai Road)1902
This main boulevard is famed for its historic London plane trees planted by the French in 1902, providing a scenic and shaded promenade lined with boutiques, cafes, and colonial-era architecture.
Shikumen ResidencesEarly 20th century
Traditional Shanghai-style stone gate houses that blend Western and Chinese architectural elements, widely built to accommodate the growing Chinese population in the French Concession.
Catholic Institutions District (Xujiahui)Mid to late 19th century
A significant Catholic hub established by French Jesuits, featuring churches, schools like St. Ignatius High School, hospitals, and religious offices, forming a large ecclesiastical complex within the concession.
Former Municipal Council Building1909
The administrative center of the French Concession, originally located on Jinling East Road and later moved to a building on Xiamen Road (now Huaihai Middle Road).