Even before the revolution, the district was abandoned by large numbers of the upper class, making way for workers and craftsmen. Largely untouched by Haussmann's influence, the Marais retains its medieval structure. Renovated during the contemporary era, it has once again become a very popular area with a strong artistic drive among the many galleries and museums constructed there. Since the 19th century, the Marais district has also had a significant population of Ashkenazi Jews.