Visiting Montsouris Park
In the 14th arrondissement of Paris, you can stroll through a 15-hectare English landscape garden. Home to a wide variety of bird species, Montsouris Park serves as a green oasis within the capital.
History
During the Second Empire, city planners devised a project to provide green spaces at the four cardinal points of the city. This plan resulted in the Bois de Boulogne to the west, the Buttes-Chaumont Park to the north, the Bois de Vincennes to the east, and to the south, Montsouris Park.
Its construction was ordered by Haussmann in 1860, and the project was entrusted to the engineer Alphand. The chosen site was a former quarry, which created several technical challenges. Extensive ground stabilization was required, and after preparation work, construction finally began in 1867, with the park opening in 1869. However, the park was far from complete, and construction continued until 1878.
In a bizarre incident on a night in May 1878, the park's artificial lake sprung a leak and completely drained overnight. It was subsequently refilled, and today it functions as a popular spot for walks and relaxation among locals.
Montsouris Park
Within the grounds, visitors can also discover several buildings of architectural interest.
For instance, you can see the former observatory of the Bureau des Longitudes. Built in 1875 at the initiative of naval captain Mouchez, it served to supplement the astronomical training of naval academy officers.
The park also houses the former facilities of one of the Parisian meteorological stations, making it one of just seven French weather stations over a century old. It has been recording weather data since April 1872. While the main center has relocated, the iconic sensors remain inside Montsouris Park.
Beyond its architecture, the park is celebrated for its flora and fauna. More than 1,400 trees grow here, and many of them are over a century old.
A relaxing escape in the middle of Paris surrounded by venerable nature.
Opening hours
| Monday | 07:00-20:30 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 07:00-20:30 |
| Wednesday | 07:00-20:30 |
| Thursday | 07:00-20:30 |
| Friday | 07:00-20:30 |
| Saturday | 07:00-20:30 |
| Sunday | 07:00-20:30 |
Very easy to get to by RER and tram, and right near the Cité universitaire, this is the biggest and most beautiful park in the south of Paris. There is grass for picnicking and relaxing, paths with a bit of an incline for running, and ponds that are home to a surprising amount of wildlife like herons and turtles.