If you're looking for a place to sunbathe and admire the flowers when spring arrives, head to the Jardin du Luxembourg, in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. Particularly appreciated by the Parisians and the inhabitants of the district, the tourists also love it since it was designated as the"most beautiful garden in Europe", no less! But do you know its history and the anecdotes that line its beautiful lawns? We tell you everything!
Have you ever heard of the Luco? It is the nickname used by Parisians to refer to the Jardin du Luxembourg. Now you know that it is the diminutive of this famous Parisian garden, inspired by the Gallo-Roman roots of Paris. According to historians, it is theabbreviation of Lucotitius, the ancient name of thesuburb of Lutetia where the current garden is located. Moreover, this name comes from the Gallic Lucotetia, meaning"marsh", very close to"Lutetia" which designated the capital in the past.
When you stroll in the Luco, you don't stroll in any other Parisian garden. This one is an exception to the rule, because it does not belong to the city, but to the Senate, the upper house of the French Parliament! It is therefore the latter that governs the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the only private parks, and what happens there, so the police of the prefecture cannot intervene as easily as in the rest of the green spaces of the capital.
In the middle of summer, the Médicis grotto is not so hidden anymore, since everyone comes to enjoy the shade of the big trees and the coolness of the fountain. But if you have the opportunity, don't forget to come and see the Medici Fountain, a real marvel that dates back to 1630. Commissioned by the queen Marie de Médicis, the fountain is today adorned by a statue of Polyphemus surprising Galatea in the arms of Acis, the work of sculptor Auguste Ottin. A particularly romantic place!
And a last one for the pleasure, you can cross the oldest merry-go-round of the capital, inaugurated in 1879 by Charles Garnier, the famous architect to whom we owe the sublime Opera of Paris.
The Jardin du Luxembourg, an exotic setting in the heart of Paris
The Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris is a popular park with Parisians, who call it "le luco", and tourists alike. A bucolic and lively garden, it's a delight for those who choose to stroll here, especially with the arrival of fine weather! [Read more]
The Jardin du Luxembourg, an exotic setting in the heart of Paris
