The largest gardens in the city are usually packed with walkers, joggers and picnickers, people reading, children playing, flower enthusiasts and dog-walkers. The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the busiest gardens in the city yet somehow remains a relaxing place to go.
Designed by Salomon de Brosse, who was commissioned by Marie de Medicis, wife of Henri IV, to create a garden that resembled her childhood Florentine home, the Jardin du Luxembourg was started in 1615, and took almost 12 years to complete. Although one area was laid out in the English style, the garden is the epitome of French landscaping, with walkways and classically designed planted areas. It forms part of the magnificent Palais du Luxembourg, home of the French Senate. The great Allee de l’Observatoire walkway was added in the 19th century.
Shrubs and flowers blend with chestnut and palm trees, which are occasionally interrupted by fountains, including the great Medicis fountain, and there is a bandstand and sculptures, including a row depicting the queens of France and famous Parisian writers and artists. A small-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty (the original was a gift from France to the USA) stands in a wooded section, while a later addition is an official memorial to the victims of the 9/11 tragedy. A tree has been planted in their memory, with a plaque to identify it. During World War II, the complex served as the headquarters of the Luftwaffe.
The garden is laid out in a deliberate fashion for ease of use and beauty. A large octagonal pond in front of the Palais du Luxembourg provides a point from where you can drift in any direction along the tree-lined avenues. And if walking does not appeal, just grab a chair and relax. There is also a large playground, complete with carousel rides, a puppet show, and a pond where children can sail toy boats.
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