What Is the 93 in Paris?

By Anna Duncan

If you’ve ever been to Paris, you may have noticed a curious number plastered throughout the city – 93. Whether it’s on street signs or graffiti tags, the number seems to be everywhere.

But what does it mean? Is it just a random number or does it hold some significance?

The Origins

The number 93 actually has its roots in French history. In 1790, during the French Revolution, the country was divided into 83 departments in order to better administer and govern the country. Each department was given a number for identification purposes, and Paris was assigned the number 75.

However, as Paris expanded over time and new towns were incorporated into its boundaries, additional numbers were needed. In 1968, three new departments were created within Paris – Hauts-de-Seine (92), Seine-Saint-Denis (93), and Val-de-Marne (94). These departments were numbered according to their geographic location relative to Paris’ city center.

The Significance

So why is the number 93 so prevalent in modern-day Paris? One reason is its association with Seine-Saint-Denis, which is one of the poorest and most ethnically diverse areas of Paris. The department has a reputation for being gritty and working-class, with high crime rates and social tensions.

But for many residents of Seine-Saint-Denis, the number has taken on a new meaning – one of pride and solidarity. In recent years, local activists and artists have adopted the number as a symbol of resistance against inequality and discrimination. They see it as a way to reclaim their identity and push back against negative stereotypes about their community.

The Street Art Connection

One of the most visible manifestations of this movement is through street art. Graffiti artists throughout Paris have been incorporating the number 93 into their work as a way to show support for Seine-Saint-Denis and its residents. You can see it on everything from building facades to metro trains.

But the number has also become a source of controversy. Some view it as a form of vandalism or a sign of urban decay, while others see it as a powerful form of expression and community building.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the story behind the 93 in Paris. While it may seem like just another number, it actually has a rich history and cultural significance that continues to evolve today. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the number 93 has become an integral part of Parisian identity and urban culture.