- History and visit to Square Jean XXIII in Paris
- The timeless charm of Square Jean XXIII
- Transfer to Square Jean XXIII in Paris
History and visit to Square Jean XXIII in Paris
Square Jean XXIII, nestled in the heart of Paris behind the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, adjoins the Ile de la Cité and the Ile Saint-Louis in the 4th arrondissement. Initially named Square de l’Archevêché, this historic 19th century garden covers more than one hectare and proudly displays the QualiParis label, a guarantee of its commitment to quality welcome and service. Visitors can access it via the Cité metro station or the RER Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame.
In the Middle Ages, the space was known as “Motte aux Papelards” or “Terrein”, serving as a place of entertainment for the clergy. Cardinal de Noailles initiated the construction of the Archbishop’s Palace in 1697. Nearby, rue de l’Abreuvoir, home of the famous Nicolas Boileau, today houses the Fountain of the Virgin, a work of 1845 signed by the architect Alphonse Vigoureux and sculptor Merlieux. After the removal of the street in 1809, the anti-legitimist riots of 1831 ravaged the elegant building and the garden designed by Gabriel Thouin. In 1870, the square was redeveloped into an artillery park before being transformed by the prefect of the Seine, Count Rambuteau, into the peaceful garden we know today, inaugurated in 1948. Renamed square Jean XXIII in 1970 in homage to Pope John XXIII, this place remains a green oasis, rich in history and beauty, in the heart of the French capital.
The timeless charm of Square Jean XXIII
Square Jean XXIII, which has become a haven of peace open to all, attracts many visitors who come to admire its preserved beauty. As the oldest garden in the neighborhood, it magnifies the splendor of Notre Dame Cathedral with a decor that includes a Byzantine hazel tree, large-leaved lime trees, Japanese cherry trees, as well as other remarkable species such as the euodia hypehensis, the silk tree, or blue spruce. The floral diversity of the square was recognized during the summer 2012 competition, where it obtained third place in the “Grands Jardins de Paris” category. The green space also serves as a refuge for kestrels, attracting ornithologists, notably those from the Ile-de-France Ornithological Center who organize dedicated visits.
To improve the visitor experience, the square offers various facilities: a playground with swings and sandboxes, public toilets, water points, and even free wifi. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and from 9 a.m. on weekends, Square Jean XXIII ensures partial accessibility for people with reduced mobility, while access is fully adapted to people with sensory disabilities.
Whether you are looking for a place to relax or simply for a walk, Square Jean XXIII proves to be an unmissable destination, testifying to a perfect harmony between history and nature, in the vibrant heart of Paris.
Transfer to Square Jean XXIII in Paris
Start your Parisian stay with a note of elegance by booking a limousine ride from Roissy CDG airport to Square Jean XXIII with our team. This exclusive service ensures a luxurious and comfortable transfer experience, bringing you directly to the heart of Paris. Square Jean XXIII, an oasis of tranquility in the shadow of Notre Dame Cathedral, is easily accessible, located just 19.1 km from Orly airport, 33.3 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle, and 88.5 km from Beauvais airport, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.