Parc Sainte-Périne

From a monk’s retreat to a haven for Parisians, Parc Sainte-Périne has worn many hats. Parc Sainte-Périne is a hilly expanse of nearly 60,000 square meters. About 40,000 square meters have been open to the public since 1977. This tranquil space wasn’t always a park. It has a rich history tied to the Sainte-Geneviève Abbey. As far back as 1109, this land served as a country escape for the monks. Imagine them strolling these grounds, seeking respite from city life. After the revolution, the Sainte-Périne institution in Chaillot took over. They later ceded it to the Assistance Publique in 1858, a public welfare organization. Then in 1977, it was passed on to the City of Paris, becoming the Parc Sainte-Périne we know today. The park is bordered on two sides by the Sainte-Périne-Rossini-Chardon-Lagache hospital complex. Parc Sainte-Périne is more than just green space. It’s a living museum of trees. Many of the plane trees, maples, ash, lindens, and chestnut trees date back to the time of the Sainte-Périne institution. Since then, around 70 exotic species have been added. Look for the American sweetgum, Chinese parasol tree, Evodia, Sophora, paper mulberry, Ginkgo biloba, Virginia tulip tree, Ehretia, plum trees, American hop hornbeam, Parrotia persica, black cherry, and persimmon trees. Among them are a Diospyros kaki and a Diospyros lotus. There are also pockets of Mediterranean plants and vibrant floral displays. In shadier spots, you’ll find bursts of hydrangeas. While the central part of Parc Sainte-Périne is landscaped, the northern and southern edges have been left wild. This creates a bio-reserve within the city, a home for bats and other creatures. Parc Sainte-Périne seamlessly blends history, nature, and recreation. It’s a place where you can relax by the water features, have a picnic, or let your dog enjoy the designated dog park. Children can explore the playgrounds and sandboxes, while adults can use the fitness equipment. Parc Sainte-Périne is a testament to how green spaces can thrive in an urban environment. It’s a place that has evolved over centuries, from a monastic retreat to a cherished urban oasis.