Thirty-four hectares of Parisian serenity. That’s the Cité internationale universitaire de Paris’s park. A hidden gem. Few know its secrets.
Nestled in the south of Paris opposite Parc Montsouris it offers a tranquil escape. This green oasis is open daily from 7 am to 10 pm. It’s perfect for a stroll or a picnic. Marvel at the architectural masterpieces within.
The Cité internationale isn’t just a park. It’s a vibrant community. Students and researchers from around the globe reside here. Their homes are the distinctive pavilions. Built between 1925 and 1969 each building boasts a unique style. Regionalist modernist and classical influences blend.
Famous architects contributed to the Cité’s design. Le Corbusier Claude Parent and Willem Marinus Dudok are just a few. Their work makes the Cité a significant site for contemporary architecture in Paris. Five pavilions hold a prestigious listing as historical monuments. The Maison du Brésil designed by Lucio Costa and Le Corbusier is one such jewel. It was fully listed in 2011. The Collège néerlandais designed by Willem Marinus Dudok stands as his only French creation. It achieved complete historical monument status in 2005.
The park itself isn’t just a backdrop. It’s a carefully cultivated ecosystem. It’s home to 179 different plant species insect hotels and rain gardens. These gardens serve a dual purpose. They enhance biodiversity and manage rainwater runoff. Fifty-two bird species including 32 nesting species call the park home. Three protected bat species also reside here.
The Cité internationale’s commitment to sustainability is remarkable. They use no pesticides. Green waste is recycled. They’ve planted over 1700 new trees in recent years. The park serves as a testament to the blend of human creativity and natural harmony. It’s a place of peace study and remarkable architecture. A place to discover a different side of Paris. A side less traveled. A side well worth exploring.