bicycle parking

You see how obedient Parisians can be? It must be forbidden to park on the cobblestones.

The English word “bicycle” has two current translations in French: bicyclette and vélo.

Bi-cycle or bi-cyclette comes from “two” + “circle” or “wheels.”

“Vélo” is the root of speed … as in velocity.

Not far from where this photo was taken was a place called the Vélodrome. Or more precisely the “Vél’ d’Hiv,” the Vélodrome d’Hiver. Built on the concept of an ice-skating rink, the Vel d’Hiv (Winter Bicycling Rink) was a place where people could ride their bikes (i) in the city (ii) on a smooth surface-rather than over cobblestones and (iii) in inclement weather.

The Vél d’Hiv no longer exists. As history illustrates time and again, what was built out of a good intention can be usurped by those of ill will … If you want to know the whole story … I suggest you read Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay.