Rendez-vous aux Jardins returns this weekend, from May 31 to June 2, 2024. This not-to-be-missed warm-weather event invites us to rediscover our green spaces in a new light, through a fabulous program offree events and exceptional visits. It's an opportunity for all nature lovers and the curious to take advantage of both private and public parks and gardens. Of course, Paris and the whole of the Île-de-France region are part of this event initiated by the French Ministry of Culture!
Among the most astonishing spots to be discovered this year is the Jardin-forêt at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France - François Mitterand, also known by the acronym "BNF". The concept of this unusual green setting is based on the principle of permaculture, an ecological approach that aims to recreate forest ecosystems in an urban environment. Unlike traditional gardens, where plants are arranged in an orderly, aesthetic fashion, the Jardin Forêt favors a more natural, wild approach. Plants are arranged to mimic the interactions between the different species present in a real forest.
This unusual garden also offers numerous ecological benefits. The presence of a wide variety of plants promotes biodiversity and attracts a multitude of insects and birds. What's more, permaculture reduces the need for water, fertilizers and pesticides, making it an environmentally-friendly space.
Usually closed to the public, the forest garden on the François-Mitterrand site can be visited free of charge during the Rendez-vous aux jardins (or during paid guided tours, from April to September). The BnF is organizing the 7th edition of its Festival Bibliothèque Parlante over the same weekend.
Guided tours of the garden give visitors the opportunity to discover the history, fauna and vegetation of this one-hectare space, designed by Dominique Perrault, Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost and Eric Jacobsen in 1995.
The location of the BnF garden, nestled in the middle of the reading rooms, makes it a unique site for flora and fauna. It provides a link in the district's ecological functioning. Different plant and animal species can use the site temporarily to move into the city, or settle there more permanently. This ecologically managed conservatory of urban biodiversity has been awarded the "Refuge LPO" label, and is the subject of a study agreement with the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle.
Practical information:
Meeting point: hall EST.
Please arrive at reception at least 10 minutes before the start of your visit. Your place may be reallocated if you arrive less than 10 minutes before the start time. As the tour passes through areas not open to the public, it will not be possible to join the tour if you are late.
Dates and Opening Time
From June 1, 2024 to June 2, 2024
Location
BnF - Site François Mitterrand
Quai François Mauriac
75013 Paris 13
Prices
Free
Official website
www.bnf.fr
