- History and visit to the Square de l’Île de France in Paris
- Discover the surroundings of the Square de l’Île de France in Paris
- Shuttle to the Square de l’Île de France in Paris
History and visit to the Square de l’Île de France in Paris
Located in the heart of Paris, in the 4th arrondissement, the Square de l’Île de France occupies an area of 0.2235 hectares. Inaugurated in 1914, this garden is renowned for housing the Deportation Martyrs Memorial. Positioned to the north of the Île de la Cité, it is also located just behind the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral and is surrounded by important monumental structures.
Located at the edge of the Quai de l’Archevêché, the location was once that of the city’s morgue, known for exposing the bodies of drowned people for three days in order to be recognized. The project for this square was envisaged by Baron Haussmann in 1868, although its construction did not begin until 1914.
Formerly called “Motte-aux-Papelards”, this place was a neglected space, strewn with debris used in the construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral. A garden was established there in 1687, initially reserved for men, and saw the planting of many varieties of flowers. The first rose bush was planted there by Madame Giscard d’Estaing on April 26, 1975, in tribute to the victims of deportation, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the liberation of the camps.
The Square initially had Greek-inspired architecture, with a single building with a single exit towards the Quai du Marché-Neuf. Before its existence, the site was known as “the Land”, serving as a promenade. With the move of the morgue to the Quai de la Rapée before the First World War, the Square was redesigned as a gateway to the Deportation Martyrs Memorial.
Triangular in shape, the Square is designed by a main earthen path, lined with white benches and covered with rich greenery. Despite its central location, it offers a haven of peace almost isolated from urban noise, with a breathtaking view of Saint-Louis Island from its tip. The Square de l’Île de France thus remains a place of meditation and natural beauty, inviting contemplation in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Paris.
Discover the surroundings of the Square de l’Île de France in Paris
The Square de l’Île-de-France is nestled on the eastern tip of the Île de la Cité, offering an exceptional panorama of the Seine and its banks. This memorial garden, dedicated to the martyrs of the deportation, is a haven of peace in the heart of the tumult of Paris, a few steps from emblematic monuments.
In the immediate vicinity, the majestic Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral stands, a living testimony to Gothic art. Despite the damage caused by the 2019 fire, it continues to fascinate and attract visitors from all over the world. Strolling along the Seine, you will discover the famous bouquinistes, guardians of the literary soul of Paris, where you can hunt for old books and souvenirs.
Not far from there, the Sainte-Chapelle, a jewel of radiant Gothic architecture, dazzles with its stained glass windows of unparalleled beauty. Crossing the Pont Saint-Michel, we dive into the Latin Quarter, famous for its bohemian atmosphere, its old-fashioned bookstores and its historic cafés.
The surroundings of Square de l’Île-de-France invite you to explore rich in culture and history. Between its tranquil gardens and the historic sites that surround it, this area of Paris offers a unique experience, combining meditation, architectural beauty and vibrant Parisian life.
Shuttle to the Square de l’Île de France in Paris
Enjoy the comfort and convenience offered by our collective shuttles during your transfer to the Square de l’Île de France, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Paris. Our customer service is available to organize your trip upon your arrival. The Square de l’Île de France, located in a privileged location in the capital, is easily accessible from the main Parisian airports: just 21 km from Orly airport, it is also at a distance of 37 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport and 90 km from Beauvais airport.
Our shuttles are specially designed to provide a peaceful and pleasant journey from these airports to the historic heart of Paris. Whether you are traveling alone or in a group, our transportation solutions adapt to your specific needs, ensuring a stress-free and efficient travel experience. Experience a warm welcome and impeccable service with our dedicated team, who ensure that your arrival in Paris and your visit to Square de l’Île de France is as smooth and pleasant as possible.