Paris, the city of love and lights, is known for its beautiful gardens and parks. Among the many stunning gardens in Paris, one stands out as the largest of them all – the Jardin des Tuileries.
The Jardin des Tuileries, also known as the Tuileries Garden, is a public garden located in the heart of Paris. It covers an area of 63 acres and stretches along the Seine River between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde.
History:
The garden was created in 1564 by Catherine de’ Medici, who commissioned landscape architect Bernard de Carnesse to design it. The garden was originally part of the Tuileries Palace, which served as a royal residence until it was destroyed during the Paris Commune in 1871.
Design:
The garden’s design is a classic French style with symmetrical patterns that are best viewed from above. The central axis of the garden leads from the Louvre Museum to Place de la Concorde and is lined with trees, fountains, and sculptures.
Features:
The Jardin des Tuileries has several notable features that make it unique among Parisian gardens. These include:
The Grande Allée
The Grande Allée is a broad path that runs through the center of the garden. It is lined with chestnut trees and provides a stunning view of both sides of the garden.
The Orangerie Museum
The Orangerie Museum is located at one end of the garden. It houses an impressive collection of Impressionist paintings by artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Picasso.
The Louvre Pyramid
The Louvre Pyramid is located at one end of the garden and serves as an entrance to the famous Louvre Museum.
The Fountains
The Jardin des Tuileries has several fountains, including the octagonal Bassin Octogonal and the circular Bassin Rond.
- The Bassin Octogonal is located at the end of the Grande Allée and features eight bronze statues representing rivers in France.
- The Bassin Rond is located near the Orangerie Museum and features a statue of Neptune surrounded by four tritons.
The Sculptures
The garden is home to numerous sculptures, including some by famous artists such as Auguste Rodin. One of the most famous sculptures in the garden is The Thinker, which sits outside the entrance to the Musée Rodin.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if you are looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Paris, look no further than the Jardin des Tuileries. With its stunning design, beautiful features, and rich history, it’s easy to see why this garden is considered one of Paris’s top attractions.