We're off to stroll the lush green paths of the Jardin des Plantes to discover the astonishing and unusual Gloriette de Buffon. Perched atop the labyrinthine mound, this fascinating 9-metre-high structure is an 18th-century architectural masterpiece, both in terms of its age and the prowess of its construction.
Did you know that this structure, erected in 1786, sits atop an artificial mound created in the 14th century by the accumulation of waste and limestone rubble from the outskirts of Paris? Although discreet, La Gloriette bears the story of the biologist, mathematician and philosopher Georges-Louis Leclerc, better known as theComte de Buffon.
Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, not only distinguished himself as a naturalist, but also as a passionate metallurgist. La Gloriette, the fruit of this passion, is the oldest metal building in France. Erected using components manufactured in Buffon's forge in Burgundy, its design required the use of a variety of metals. You can still admire :
The building's finishing touch is its roof, designed like a tent sheet, and the armillary sphere enthroned above it, representing the movements of the stars and sun around our planet.
Although the Gloriette has suffered the ravages of time, including electrolytic degradation of materials, it was restored to its original appearance in the 1980s. However, one element is missing: an intriguing solar gong. This acoustic meridian was rung every noon by a solar mechanism. A globe acting as a hammer struck twelve strokes on a drum, activated by a counterweight released by the burning of a horsehair by the sun's rays.
Designed with an iron frame from the Forges de Buffon, located near Montbard, the Gloriette at the time of its creation was a true artistic and technical feat. It featured a refined blend of bronze, copper, gold and lead decorations. One of its most fascinating features was the solar gong, which was struck every noon by a hammer. This hammer, suspended by a linen thread, was activated by the sun's rays burning the thread, thus triggering the gong. A marvel of ingenuity!
Confidential evenings at the Gloriette: Rétif de la Bretonne, in his book Les Nuits de Paris, echoes the libertinage that took place around the Gloriette after the Jardin des Plantes closed. Although the place exuded a certain charm and perhaps even eroticism, there was no question of sexual orgies. The term "libertinage" here refers tointellectual libertinage.
These evenings saw Parisians from the aristocracy and bourgeoisie meeting anonymously, often masked and costumed. On the menu: coffee, tea, wine, discussion, music, dancing and perhaps more. These events were spaces for free expression and the questioning of dogmas and ideas, which society at the time generally did not tolerate. Similar evenings were also held in other gardens in European capitals, helping to forge social links and spread new ideas.
As you approach the Gloriette, take a look at the Epicurean inscription in golden letters:"Horas non numero nisi serenas". A beautiful maxim meaning:"I only count the hours that are serene".
So, on your next visit to the Jardin des Plante in Paris, don't miss this architectural marvel, a real invitation to discovery and serenity. As you stroll through this emblematic site, you're transported to a Paris of yesteryear, tinged with history, science and discovery. A wonderful way to reconnect with the past, while enjoying a haven of peace in the heart of Paris.
Also worth discovering:
Did you know? Discover France's oldest cedar of Lebanon in Paris and its unusual history.
In the heart of Paris, the Jardin des Plantes is home to a historical curiosity: the oldest cedar of Lebanon in France. Planted in 1734, its history is a mixture of botany, legend and an incredible journey. Let's take a green walk through Buffon's labyrinth to discover this remarkable 300-year-old tree. [Read more]
The Jardin des Plantes conceals a magnificent alpine garden. Located between the Grandes Serres and the Menagerie, this garden, which has no entrance doors, is accessible via a hidden underground passage. Here you can discover the rock gardens and wild mountain plants. It's a haven of peace to be (re)discovered all year round. [Read more]
The Roseraie du Jardin des Plantes, located along the Galerie de Minéralogie, to the right of the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle or to the left if you're coming from the Seine, is a wonderful place to discover in spring and especially in June. With its 390 species of old and modern roses, it's a magnificent and free rose garden, in addition to the superb rosebushes that stand proudly in front of the Muséum. [Read more]
The Menagerie, or rather the zoo of the Jardin des Plantes, belongs to the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle. Located next to the famous Jardin des Plantes, it's not only the oldest zoo in Paris, opened in 1794, it's also an area well worth a visit. Every day, hundreds of animals live in 5.5 hectares of greenery. Come and discover them! [Read more]
(Re)discover at the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris, the newly restored "Mammouth de Durfort", an icon of paleontology on display since 1898. [Read more]
This year, the Jardin des Plantes is hosting a new edition of its famous lantern trail, entitled "Jurassique en voie d'Illumination". On view from November 20 to January 19, 2024, this exhibition takes us back in time this year. Monumental creatures come to life through majestic light sculptures, transforming the park into a veritable open-air museum. Explore the mysteries of the Jurassic period, while enjoying a magical stroll under the stars. A not-to-be-missed event at the end of the year. [Read more]
Ready to cross paths with dinosaurs at Bercy Village? From July 6, 2024, we're taking a leap into the past, thanks to an extraordinary immersive virtual reality experience that will take us through the history of the Earth. [Read more]
You've heard of the Muséum and the Galerie de l'évolution, but what about the Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie comparée, nestling at the entrance to the Jardin des Plantes on the Gare d'Austerlitz side? From living creatures to extinct dinosaurs, discover the world of bones in this sublime museum, well worth a visit. [Read more]
The Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle de Paris with its Jardin des Plantes is an emblematic institution of the capital, founded in 1793. Accessible all year round, this museum offers an insight into the world's rich natural heritage. From plants and magnets to fossils and experiments, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of nature. [Read more]
Paris's Jardin des Plantes is home to a number of historical and unusual sights that are well worth a visit. We reveal 8 treasures to discover in this 24-hectare haven of peace, one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. [Read more]
Do you know the Lion Fountain in the Jardin des Plantes? Located near the entrance on rue Geoffroy Saint Hilaire, this work of art dating from 1863 awaits you at the foot of Buffon's labyrinth. We tell you all about it. [Read more]
Visiting Paris is good, but with animations or devices to entertain the children, it is even better! The Paris Mômes team is now offering six new game trails to discover the capital's emblematic neighborhoods with your family! [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
Starts December 17, 2024
Location
Plant Garden
Place Valhubert
75005 Paris 5
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.jardindesplantesdeparis.fr
Did you know? Discover France's oldest cedar of Lebanon in Paris and its unusual history.
The Jardin des Plantes' hidden Alpine garden, a nugget worth discovering
The Jardin des Plantes rose garden unveils its beautiful colors
La Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes, the oldest zoo in Paris
The Durfort Mammoth at the Paris Natural History Museum, restored!
Jurassic illumination: the 2024-2025 Festival of Lights at the Jardin des Plantes - photos
Missing Worlds: get up close to dinosaurs in virtual reality at Bercy Village - our test
The Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie Comparée, the Museum's nugget in the Jardin des Plantes
Discover the treasures of the Paris Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle - program
Discover the treasures of the Jardin des Plantes in Paris
Discover the unusual Lion Fountain in the Jardin des Plantes : History and curiosities
Visiting Paris with your family: six free game trails for fun walks with children
