Visiting Montsouris Park
In the 14th arrondissement of Paris, you can stroll through an English-style garden spanning 15 hectares (about 37 acres). Home to a diverse range of bird species, Montsouris Park is a green sanctuary in the middle of the capital.
History
During the Second Empire, a plan was enacted to provide residents with green spaces at the four cardinal points of the city. This initiative 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.
Construction was ordered by Haussmann in 1860 and entrusted to the engineer Alphand. Because the site was a former quarry, the team faced significant technical challenges. Extensive consolidation work was required, meaning construction did not begin until 1867, with the inauguration held in 1869. The park remained a work in progress until 1878.
In a bizarre turn of events, the park's artificial lake drained completely overnight in May 1878 due to a leak. It has since been refilled and serves as a local spot for walks and relaxation.
Montsouris Park
Within the park grounds, you will find several buildings of interest.
For instance, you can see the former observatory of the Bureau des longitudes (French Bureau of Longitudes). Built in 1875 at the request of Captain Mouchez, it was designed to supplement the astronomical training of naval officers.
The park also houses the former site of one of the Parisian meteorological stations, which is among the seven French stations that are over a century old. It has been recording data since April 1872. While the main center has been relocated, the iconic sensors of Montsouris Park remain on-site.
The park is also notable for its flora and fauna. More than 1,400 trees have been planted here, many of which have stood for over a century.
It is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris surrounded by mature nature.
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.