List Worthiness: Jardin du Luxembourg
Yes, yes, yes, by all means, this should be on your list of things to do in Paris. As much as I talk about other gardens that are my favorites, Jardin du Luxembourg is equally as grand as the Tuilieres and can be as intimate as Palais Royal. It is deceiving in size as it is surrounded by trees that creates a “cozy” feeling, however, it is the largest public park in Paris. All the elements for awesomeness can be found here; fountains, flowers and beautiful sculpture.
As you can see, pulling up a chair and getting lost in a good book is clearly encouraged here. Taking a nap would be another popular activity that goes on within these beautiful grounds. Sun-tanning has been know to happen as well. The building that you see in the background is Luxembourg Palace, built for Marie de Médicis. The French Senate meets here and it is home to the Musée du Luxembourg, a small museum that holds magnificent temporary exhibitions. I have seen several and aside from the long lines (buying a ticket ahead of time would be brilliant on your part) you could not possibly be disappointed.
This is the Fontaine de Médicis that Madame Guiliano alludes to in her list of the Top 20 To Dos in the City of Lights. A 17th century fountain built in the style of an Italian grotto, it’s a beautiful haven in the hustle and bustle of the city and certainly suggests quiet, contemplative moments or intimate romantic trysts.
Finally, I leave you with this painting by John Singer Sargent, titled, Luxembourg Gardens at Twilight. On a balmy summer evening a few years back, one of my daughters and I were fortunate enough to attend an opera being performed in the gardens. It was such a memorable experience and this painting reminded me of being allowed in the park after hours to experience such a special moment. THAT would be on my list of things to do in Paris.
Photo credits: Wikipedia, Dreamstime
Tags: , , b5media, Catherine de Médicis, Fontaine de Médicis, france, French Senat, Jardin-du-Luxembourg, John Singer Sargent, Musée-du-Luxembourg, paris, the paris traveler, travel, travel blogs, TuilieriesRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Attractions, Great Places To Unwind, Great Walks, Museums, Outdoor Activites
2 opinions for List Worthiness: Jardin du Luxembourg
massj
Apr 22, 2008 at 7:01 am
I was in Paris last weekend and it was raining all the time so we had to give up this wonderful Jardin :-(
Kim
Apr 22, 2008 at 7:32 am
I’m sorry to hear that. You know what that means though don’t you…..you just have to go back!!
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