Luxembourg Garden

The Luxembourg Garden, or Jardin du Luxembourg, is a large public park located in the heart of Paris, France. It covers 25 hectares and features beautiful gardens, fountains, statues, and monuments. The park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike

History of the Luxembourg Garden

The Luxembourg Gardens has a fascinating history dating back to the renaissance. It was created in 1612 by Queen Mary de Medicis, who bought the hotel du Luxembourg and its land to build a royal residence there instead of the palace of Tournelles, which had been destroyed. The queen hired landscape designer Tommaso Francini to design the gardens that would surround the new palace. The garden was inspired by the Boboli Gardens of florence, where the queen was grew up.

Over the centuries, the Luxembourg Gardens has undergone many changes and improvements. During the French revolution, the garden was opened to the public and renamed: the Garden of Equality. Later it was renamed: the Luxembourg Gardens in honor of the neighboring palace which had been bought by the Senate.

The garden also underwent significant transformations during the reign of napoleon III, with the creation of new paths, new fountains and the installation of statues representing French historical figures. Over the years, the garden has also benn the scene of political demonstrations, sports competitions and various also cultural events.

Now, today the garden is a popular relaxation spot for Parisians and visitors to the city with facilities for children, winding walkways, picnic areas and lush green spaces. Visitors can also admire the statues of Queen Marie de Medicis, Vercingetorix and Liberty, as well as the magnificent Medici fontaines and the observatory.

Walks, sports and games for children

he Luxembourg Garden offers visitors a wide range of activities, including walking and jogging, sports, and games for children.

Walking is one of the most popular activities in the garden, as it offers a chance to take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy the fresh air. The park features several walking paths, including a central path that runs from the palace to the Fountain of the Observatory.

For those who enjoy jogging, the garden has several designated jogging paths, which offer a great way to stay in shape while taking in the park’s natural beauty.

In addition to walking and jogging, the garden is also a great place for sports enthusiasts. The park features several tennis courts, a basketball court, and a fitness area with exercise equipment.

For children, the Luxembourg Garden offers several playgrounds and games, including a large playground near the south entrance and several smaller play areas throughout the park. Children can also enjoy a ride on the famous vintage carousel, which has been operating in the garden since the 19th century.

Our tips for visiting the Jardin du Luxembourg

If you’re planning to visit the Jardin du Luxembourg, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:

• Check the opening hours: The garden is open every day, but the opening and closing times vary depending on the season. Be sure to check the official website or your guidebook to confirm the hours before you go.
• Bring a picnic: The garden is a great place to have a picnic, so consider bringing some food and drinks to enjoy in one of the many designated picnic areas.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The garden is quite large, so be prepared to do a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Follow the rules: The Jardin du Luxembourg has several rules that visitors are expected to follow, including no smoking, no cycling, and no walking on the grass. Be sure to read the posted signs and follow the guidelines to avoid any issues.
• Visit the attractions: The garden has several attractions worth seeing, including the Medici Fountain, the Fontaine de l’Observatoire, and the Pavillon Davioud. Be sure to take the time to explore the different areas of the park and check out these notable landmarks.
• Take advantage of the events: The garden regularly hosts events and exhibitions, including concerts, art shows, and cultural festivals. Check the official website or local listings to see what’s happening during your visit.
• Explore the surrounding area: The Jardin du Luxembourg is located in a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. Take some time to wander the nearby streets and soak up the local culture.