The French Quarter is one of the best-known neighborhoods in New Orleans. It is dense with history, cultural significance and nightlife. It was founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville and known as “Vieux Carre” in French — “Old Square” in English. It is bordered on the west by Basin Street, St. Louis Street and North Rampart Street. On the east is the Mississippi River. To the south is Canal Street, Decatur Street and Iberville Street. On the north is Esplanade Avenue. The entire neighborhood was designated as a National Historic Landmark on December 21, 1965.
Much of the construction occurred under Spanish rule, before New Orleans was part of the United States; the architecture reflected that. There are also some buildings that date from the late 19th and early 20th century. The French Quarter suffered two damaging fires, one in 1788 and another in 1794, damaging most of the original architecture. The Quarter was rebuilt using more stringent fire codes and less flammable materials. The French Quarter, sitting five feet above sea level, avoided much of the havoc that Hurricane Katrina caused throughout New Orleans; damage here was minimal.
The popular Jackson Square, once a famous hangout for artists and art students, today hosts palm readers, street performers and mimes, as well. The Square features the historic St. Louis Cathedral designed by Pope Paul VI, The Cabildo, the old city hall where the Louisiana Purchase was signed, and The Prebystere, built to house Roman Catholic priests. It was turned into a courthouse and is now a museum. Bourbon Street, the most famous stretch of pavement in New Orleans, is dotted with taverns and restaurants with famous pasts. The area offers ghost tours. The French Quarter is one of the few places in America that allows possession and consumption of alcohol in open containers on the street.
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