The Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) is a historic public park situated between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde in Paris. Established in 1564 by Queen Catherine de’ Medici as the garden of the Tuileries Palace, it was opened to the public in 1667 and became a public park after the French Revolution.
Historical Overview:
- Origins: The garden was initially designed in the Italian Renaissance style by landscape architect Bernard de Carnesse. In the 17th century, André Le Nôtre, the famed gardener of King Louis XIV, redesigned it into a formal French garden, introducing elements like the Grand Carré and the Grand Couvert. Louvre Museum
- Public Access: After the French Revolution, the Tuileries became a public park, serving as a place of leisure and social gathering for Parisians and visitors alike. Louvre Museum
Key Features:
- Sculptures and Fountains: The garden is adorned with numerous statues and fountains, including works by artists such as Aristide Maillol and Auguste Rodin. Notable features include the Grand Bassin Rond and the Grand Bassin Octogonal, large ponds where visitors often relax by the water. Louvre Museum
- Museums: Within the garden are two significant museums:
- Musée de l’Orangerie: Renowned for housing Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies” series, this museum also features works by artists like Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso. Louvre Museum
- Jeu de Paume: Originally a tennis court, it now serves as a gallery dedicated to contemporary art and photography exhibitions. Louvre Museum
- Seasonal Events: The Tuileries Garden hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual Tuileries Funfair (Fête des Tuileries) during the summer months, offering rides and games for all ages. Louvre Museum
Visiting Information:
- Opening Hours: The garden is open daily, with hours varying by season:
- 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM in April, May, September, and October.
- 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM in June, July, and August.
- 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM from November to March. Louvre Museum
- Accessibility: The garden is accessible via several metro stations, including Tuileries (Line 1), Concorde (Lines 1, 8, 12), and Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1, 7). Louvre Museum
- Amenities: Visitors can enjoy various amenities such as cafés, children’s play areas, and ample seating throughout the park. Louvre Museum
The Tuileries Garden offers a harmonious blend of art, history, and nature, making it a quintessential Parisian experience for both locals and tourists.
