Perched above the Gare de l’Est, lies the Jardin Marielle Franco. This Parisian public garden honors a vital legacy. It offers a unique blend of tranquility and history.
The Jardin Marielle Franco is named after Marielle Franco. She was a Brazilian human rights activist. She fought for equality. Tragically, she was assassinated in 2018. This garden stands as a tribute to her courageous work. It symbolizes the ongoing fight for justice.
Inaugurated in the summer of 2019, the Jardin Marielle Franco is more than just a green space. It represents a significant urban project. It is part of a larger effort to connect the Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est. This connection is called the “balcon vert” or green balcony.
The two train stations are only 500 meters apart. However, the pedestrian route was not ideal. The monumental staircase on Rue d’Alsace posed a challenge. It could not be altered. The solution was innovative. An adjacent building was constructed. It houses elevators and escalators.
The building’s roof became the Jardin Marielle Franco. The garden spans 2600 square meters. It is designed as three successive terraces. These terraces are accessible from Rue d’Alsace via two footbridges.
Originally, planners wanted to create a garden on the roof. The function of the building was secondary. Ultimately, it became a hotel. The rooftop, at street level, was transformed into a suspended garden. It overlooks the train platforms.
The Jardin Marielle Franco features accessible lawns and planted areas. It has a shared garden. There are 68 trees. 46 of them are fruit trees. A drinking fountain is available. A solarium offers relaxation. A play area entertains children.
The garden’s design incorporates a gradual ascent towards the east. This design reveals views of the railway landscape. This feature creates a dynamic and engaging environment.
Local residents and associations helped design the Jardin Marielle Franco. The goal was to create a space that promotes walking and relaxation. The city and the SNCF collaborated on this project. It improves the connection between the two stations. It enhances the quality of life for locals.
The Jardin Marielle Franco is accessible to people with reduced mobility. It includes handrails and night lighting. It is a welcoming space for everyone.
The garden is accessible via Rue d’Alsace. It is near the Gare de l’Est and Gare du Nord. Metro lines 4, 5, and 7 serve the Gare de l’Est station.
So next time you find yourself near Gare de l’Est, take a few moments to visit this inspiring space. The Jardin Marielle Franco stands as a reminder of the importance of human rights. It is a symbol of resilience. It is a green oasis in the heart of Paris.