Strolling through Paris’s peaceful Medieval Garden at the Cluny Museum

History and visit to the medieval garden of Paris

Under European feudalism, a particular form of garden emerged, known as the hortus conclusus, or walled vegetable garden. This ancient garden was a collection of cereals, legumes and umbellifers, grown mainly for subsistence. Since the year 2000, the medieval garden has been reimagined and recreated, drawing inspiration from medieval museum collections and using ancient documents related to plants and gardens from the Middle Ages in Europe. Located near the Hôtel des Abbés de Cluny, in the heart of Paris in the 5th arrondissement, this garden embodies the essence of a museum garden. It is a closed and living space, organized into regular and geometric plots, rectangular or square in shape. The plants are carefully spaced and lined with wooden structures, with a variety of species wild or cultivated in Europe from the 5th to 15th centuries, such as different types of mint.

In the garden, plessis, or woven wooden fences, support the cultivated terraces and visitors are invited to rest on benches reinforced by tile walls. The medieval garden is distinguished by its unique composition, which includes the herbularius, hortus, viridarium and flower garden. Herbularius is home to 90 species of plants, including medicinal herbs used in the preparation of remedies and culinary herbs. The Hortus, or vegetable garden, features nine squares, a design inspired by the Christian symbol of the number nine, representing the Trinity and, for the ancient Greeks, symbolizing the three stages of womanhood: the maiden, the nymph and the old woman. The viridarium acts as an orchard, with fruit trees arranged in a cross, as is usually found in cemetery orchards, where the tree trunks symbolize resurrection and the graves lie under the trees and grass, signifying the eternal bliss.

The garden also includes a secret garden or garden of love, with walls featuring plant doors that open onto secluded areas designed for rest and contemplation, each dedicated to one of the five senses. The creation of the medieval garden is the result of a collaboration between landscapers Eric Ossart and Arnaud Maurières, initiated by the Museums Directorate of the French Ministry of Culture and Communication in partnership with Alcatel and the City of Paris. Spanning 5,000 m², the garden unfolds along Rue Sommerard, leading visitors from the busy streets of Saint-Michel and Saint-Germain to the museum entrance through a sequence of green spaces. This garden is not only a botanical journey through different cultivated plots and an educational resource on monastic gardens, but also a sensory experience, improving the well-being of visitors thanks to the aromatic scents and vibrant colors of its flowers. Currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity, this style of garden has been adopted by many historic sites, each incorporating their own medieval garden, such as the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg and the ecomuseum, further testifying to its enduring appeal and importance.

Discover the Surroundings of the Church of the Medieval Garden in Paris

Just a stone’s throw away from the peaceful Church of the Medieval Garden in Paris, visitors can embark on a historical journey and explore an array of nearby curiosities that narrate the city’s rich past. Adjacent to the church is a quaint, yet captivating medieval garden, meticulously designed to reflect the gardens of yesteryears, offering a tranquil escape amidst the urban hustle. This garden showcases a variety of plant species typical of the medieval era and functions as a living museum, educating visitors about the significant role of horticulture in historical contexts.

Adding to the cultural landscape near the church, the Musée de Cluny stands as a monument to Middle Ages art and craftsmanship. Housed within a striking medieval structure, the museum presents an expansive collection of artifacts, including the renowned Lady and the Unicorn tapestry, highlighting the era’s artistic milestones.

For those eager to delve deeper into history, the neighboring Latin Quarter offers a maze of narrow streets brimming with historic buildings, quaint bookshops, and inviting cafes, each holding its unique narrative. This vibrant area, famed for its intellectual and artistic heritage, remains a center for students, locals, and tourists, all attracted by its energetic ambiance and deep historical roots.

Transfer to the Medieval Garden in Paris

Experience a seamless transfer to the Medieval Garden in Paris with our expert team. Travel from Charles de Gaulle, Orly, or Beauvais Airport using our private car service for a comfortable journey. While taxis offer direct routes, they can be costly and affected by traffic. Conversely, public transportation like the RER and metro is more affordable but challenging with heavy luggage or post-flight fatigue. Our shuttle services provide a reliable and cost-effective alternative, avoiding the high costs and complications of taxis and public transport. Enjoy direct, efficient transfers with our shuttle, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your exploration of Paris’s historic sites.