- 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.</p >
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.</ p>
Transfer to Square Jean XXIII in Paris
Begin your Paris experience with elegance by booking a limousine ride from Roissy to Square Jean XXIII. This charming square, located beside Notre-Dame Cathedral, is easily reached: 19.1 km from Orly, 33.3 km from CDG, and 88.5 km from Beauvais. While public transport may be cost-effective, it often proves difficult with heavy luggage or after a long flight.
Past travelers have noted the inconsistency of taxis and the physical demands of using the RER or metro. In contrast, our shuttle services offer a reliable and comfortable alternative, direct transfers from CDG and private cars from Orly included. These services combine the convenience of pre-booking with competitive rates and stress-free travel, making them the perfect solution for reaching your Paris destination comfortably and on time.