Statues, Parks, Gardens & Historical Sites
A guide to some of the parks and gardens in the Marais, as well statues and historical sites to take note of while you stroll through this charming neighbourhood.
Place des Vosges
Perhaps one of the most beautiful squares in Paris, the Place des Vosges is certainly the oldest, dating back to the early 17th century. Originally named Place Royale, this square was commissioned by King Henri IV of the House of Bourbon, the first of many Bourbon kings to rule France.
Here you’ll find four covered arcades, and 36 pavilions, surrounding a tranquil garden in the centre, called Square Louis XIII. The layout is designed to reflect the ideals and styles common to the aristocracy in the Italian Renaissance. The arcades that frame the central garden now features shops, hotels, restaurants, and the Maison Victor Hugo, making a visit to this square more than just a relaxing place to rest.
Historically, the grounds of Place des Vosges are significant; King Henri II was gravely injured in this vicinity during a tournament, which lead to his death in 1559. Further, many important names from history have lived in the apartments above the arcades, including Victor Hugo (as noted above) and Cardinal Richelieu, while the garden was the location of the royal engagement between King Louis XIII and Anne of Austria (the parents of the sun king Louis XIV).
How to Get There: The closest métro stations are Saint-Paul (M1), Bastille (M1, M5, or M8), or Chemin Vert (M8).
Jardin Anne Frank
A small little community garden tucked away behind the Musée d’art et d’Histoire du Judaïsm (the Jewish Art & History Museum) honouring the memory of Anne Frank, a child lost to the Holocaust. Take in the chestnut tree that was planted in memory/homage of the chestnut tree Anne Frank would look upon through the window in her hideaway. While built to commemorate a tragic loss, the garden has become rather tranquil, with a pond in the center and a pergola (shaded pathway with pillars) circling the garden with benches and flowers. While not a garden known for its flowers, especially compared to other parks and gardens in the city, you will find a few interesting breeds here, including Japanese cherry blossoms (though they do have a limited bloom).
How to Get There: The closest métro station is Rambuteau (M11)
Square Georges Caïn
A tiny little square tucked away in Paris, only enjoyed by those in the know. What makes this park unique is the art found within this little square, mainly a bronze statue created in the 1600s by French sculptor Laurent Magnier. You can also find his scultpures at the Palace of Versailles. Interestingly, another modern installation was added in the 90’s, this one an electronic piece called ‘Rossingnol de Heinz’, meaning the Nightingale of Heinz. Electric birds will sing when the wind blows, triggered by internal sensors to detect the ideal weather for a nightingale.
How to Get There: The closest métro stations are Saint-Paul (M1) or Chemin Vert (M8).
Square Saint-Gilles Grand Veneur (at Hôtel du Grand Veneur)
A tiny little square and garden tucked away from prying eyes and tourists, enjoy a tranquil moment in this square, surrounded by beautiful buildings, fresh green grass, and beautiful flowers. It’s a lovely spot to rest your feet or to sit with a coffee and one of your many treats. While sitting on one of the stone benches, take note of the boar’s head beneath the small balcony overlooking the garden, just as you should note the dogs on the door knockers, a reference to one of the former inhabitants here back in the 18th century.
How to Get There: The closest métro stations are Chemin Vert (M8) and Saint-Sébastian Froissart (M8).
