Private car transfer to medieval garden in Paris

History and visit the medieval garden in Paris

In the framework of European feudalism, a distinctive form of garden emerged, known as hortus conclusus, or a walled vegetable garden. This ancient garden was a collection of cereals, legumes, and Umbelliferae, cultivated primarily for sustenance. Since the year 2000, the medieval garden has been reimagined and recreated, drawing inspiration from the collections of medieval museums and utilizing ancient documents related to the plants and gardens of the Middle Ages in Europe. Situated in the vicinity of the Hotel des Abbés de Cluny, within the heart of Paris in the 5th arrondissement, this garden embodies the essence of a museum garden. It is an enclosed, vibrant space, organized into regular, geometric plots, either rectangular or square in shape. The plants within are meticulously spaced and bordered by wooden structures, featuring a variety of species that were either wild or cultivated in Europe from the fifth to the fifteenth centuries, such as different types of mints.

Within the garden, plessis, or woven wood fences, support the cultivated terraces, and visitors are welcomed to rest on bench seats reinforced with tile walls. The medieval garden stands out for its unique composition, incorporating the herbularius, hortus, viridarium, and the flower garden. The herbularius is home to 90 species of plants, including medicinal herbs used for preparing 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: maiden, nymph, and crone. The viridarium serves as an orchard, with fruit trees arranged in a cross pattern typically found in cemetery orchards, where tree trunks symbolize resurrection and graves lie beneath the trees and grass, signifying eternal bliss.

The garden also includes a secret garden or garden of love, with walls featuring vegetative doors that open into secluded areas designed for rest and contemplation, each dedicated to one of the five senses. The creation of the medieval garden was a collaborative effort between landscape designers Eric Ossart and Arnaud Maurières, initiated by the French Ministry of Culture and Communication’s Directorate of Museums in partnership with Alcatel and the City of Paris. Spanning 5,000 m², the garden unfolds along Rue Sommerard, leading visitors from the bustling streets of Saint Michel and Saint-Germain to the museum’s entrance through a sequence of garden spaces. This garden not only serves as a botanical journey through various cultivated plots and educational resource on monastic gardens but also as a sensory experience, enhancing visitors’ well-being through the aromatic fragrances and the vibrant colors of its flowers. Currently experiencing a surge in popularity, this garden style has been adopted by numerous historical sites, with each incorporating their own medieval garden, such as the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle and the Ecomuseum, further testament to its enduring appeal and significance.

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

Just a stone’s throw away from the serene Church of the Medieval Garden in Paris, visitors can embark on a journey through time and explore an array of nearby curiosities that tell tales of the city’s rich history. Adjacent to the church lies a quaint, yet captivating medieval garden, meticulously designed to mirror those of the past, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city. This garden not only showcases a variety of plant species that were prevalent during the medieval era but also serves as a living museum, educating visitors on the historical significance of horticulture during that time.

Further enriching the cultural landscape around the church, the Musée de Cluny stands as a testament to the Middle Ages’ art and craftsmanship. This museum, housed in a stunning medieval structure, offers an extensive collection of artifacts, including the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestry, providing a deep dive into the period’s artistic achievements.

For those with an appetite for discovery, the neighboring Latin Quarter offers a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with historical buildings, charming bookshops, and cozy cafes, each with its own story. This vibrant area, known for its intellectual and artistic legacy, continues to be a hub for students, locals, and tourists alike, drawn by its lively atmosphere and historical depth.

Transfer to the Medieval Garden in Paris

Paris has no shortage of fascinating sites to explore. Book with our team your private car with a driver for visits to Paris and its historic sites. Do not hesitate to contact our team to select the car that best meets your needs. The Medieval Garden is situated 21 kilometers away from Orly Airport, 28 kilometers from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 70.9 kilometers from Beauvais Airport.