Ever glimpsed a hidden Parisian square a tranquil oasis nestled near the bustling heart of the city? That’s the Square du Général-Morin. It’s a small green space but rich in history and secrets. It lies in the 3rd arrondissement just northwest of the Marais district a truly charming part of Paris.
The square is named after Arthur Morin a remarkable general and physicist. He served as director of the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers from 1852 to 1880. This prestigious institution is just behind the square. Its chapel overlooks the square’s peaceful atmosphere.
The Square du Général-Morin stands on the site of the old Rue de Breteuil a street that was laid out in 1780. It connected Rue Royale-Saint-Martin now Rue Réaumur with Rue Vaucanson. Imagine the carriages and foot traffic that once filled this space. Today the quiet elegance of the square offers a stark contrast.
But the square’s most intriguing feature is a bronze replica. This replica is a smaller version of Bartholdi’s Statue of Liberty. It’s a 2.83-meter tall bronze cast from the original plaster model. One of twelve such casts it stands proudly in the square. This particular statue embarked from Le Havre. It journeyed across the Atlantic on the French container ship Tosca. Before finding a permanent home in Washington D.C. it had a brief stay at Ellis Island. It was then displayed for the French National Day at the French embassy. The statue remained there for a decade. This replica stands as a reminder of the enduring friendship between France and the United States.
So next time you explore the 3rd arrondissement take a moment to discover this delightful green space. The Square du Général-Morin. This peaceful sanctuary is a hidden gem. It blends history architectural marvels and a fascinating connection to a world-famous symbol of freedom. You may discover its secrets yourself. It’s a quiet reflection on the past. This square has so much more to offer than you can imagine.