Paris’s First Coffeehouse: Procope Since 1686

When you sip a coffee in a Parisian café today, you’re likely sitting where some of the 18th century’s sharpest minds once debated democracy, philosophy, and revolution. But few realize that Paris’s very first coffeehouse—still open—began life as something entirely different: a luxury Turkish bath.

Founded in 1686 by Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli, an Italian from Sicily, Procope is not only Paris’s oldest café but also a survivor of 350 years of history, hosting everyone from Voltaire to Napoleon. Its origins as a bathhouse and its role in shaping Enlightenment thought make it a must-know chapter in coffee culture.

From Turkish Bath to Coffeehouse

Opened in 1686, Procope started as an upscale Turkish bath. Its founder, Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli, transformed the space into a coffeehouse, renaming it after himself. The redesign introduced bold features like wall mirrors and marble-topped tables—innovations that soon became standard in Parisian cafés. The trend of hanging mirrors in coffee shops began here, not just for style but to make small spaces feel larger through reflected candlelight and layered views.

A Stage for the Enlightenment

Just three years after Procope opened, the prestigious French theater troupe Les Comédiens-Français moved into a building across the street in 1689. Composed of 27 actors handpicked by King Louis XIV, their presence drew crowds, and Procope benefited from the buzz. Soon, it became a magnet for revolutionary thinkers. Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot—key figures of the French Enlightenment—frequented the café, often debating ideas that would reshape society. Benjamin Franklin even worked on drafts of the U.S. Constitution here. Voltaire reportedly used a royal marble tabletop as his personal desk, leaving his handwriting even in the restroom. Later patrons included Napoleon Bonaparte and Victor Hugo.

What Makes Procope a Living Museum

Remarkably, Procope is still in business today. Many original artifacts remain on display, turning the café into a “coffee museum” where you can sip espresso surrounded by centuries of history. The establishment’s walls, furniture, and decor have witnessed the evolution of French intellectual life, making a visit there a journey through time for any coffee enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was Paris’s first coffeehouse, Procope, founded?

Procope was founded in 1686 by Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli, an Italian from Palermo, Sicily. It is recognized as the oldest continuously operating café in Paris.

Was Procope always a coffeehouse?

No. Originally opened in 1686 as a high-end Turkish bath, Procope was later converted into a coffeehouse by its founder, Francesco Procopio. The space was redesigned with features like marble tables and wall mirrors that influenced later Parisian café design.

Which famous Enlightenment thinkers visited Procope?

Procope attracted major Enlightenment figures including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Denis Diderot. These thinkers often debated philosophy and politics in the café, contributing to the era’s intellectual movements.

Did Benjamin Franklin work on the U.S. Constitution at Procope?

Yes. Benjamin Franklin is known to have spent time at Procope working on drafts of the U.S. Constitution. The café’s environment made it a popular spot for such intellectual work.

What historical items can you still see at Procope today?

Procope still displays many original artifacts, including furnishings and decor that date back to its 17th- and 18th-century heyday. Visitors can see the marble desk once used by Voltaire and other historic pieces, making it a living museum experience.

Who were some notable later patrons of Procope?

In addition to its 18th-century clientele, later famous visitors to Procope included Napoleon Bonaparte and Victor Hugo. The café has hosted generations of influential figures over its 350-year history.

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