Where can you find a green escape in Paris’s 12th arrondissement? It’s at Place Charles Péguy. This square is more than just a green space. It’s a testament to urban renewal.
Place Charles Péguy offers a serene retreat. It honors the French writer Charles Péguy. He lived from 1873 to 1914. But there is also a Rue Péguy in the 6th arrondissement since 1926.
Created in 1989, Place Charles Péguy spans 13,045 square meters. It sits on former railway land. This land once connected the Petite Ceinture line to the Bastille line. The square’s design incorporates the area’s history.
In 2007, Place Charles Péguy earned the ecological green spaces label. This award recognized its commitment to environmental sustainability. An expansion in added 2,860 square meters to the square.
You can access Place Charles Péguy from several streets. These are Rue de Montempoivre, Rue Marie-Laurencin and Rue Rottembourg. The Bel-Air metro station is nearby. Also the Montempoivre tram stop on line 3a.
Originally, Place Charles Péguy emphasized landscape design. It featured architectural elements. Over time, it has adapted to meet community needs.
In 2009, changes were made for the users’ benefit. A former fountain and water staircase were replaced. Vegetation and a rope pyramid now occupy the space. The pyramid became a popular play structure for kids.
Over the years, the children’s area has been renovated and expanded. Tables for table tennis and chess were added. Since 2019, the Sentier Nature provides access to the Petite Ceinture.
Even the upper part of the old water staircase has found new life. An outdoor fitness area was installed. Place Charles Péguy has transformed into a vital community hub.
The square features two shared gardens. These gardens are managed by the association Graine de Partage. A central feature is a rope pyramid surrounded by catalpa trees. These trees have heart-shaped leaves.
A mineral area with an amphitheater provides contrast. It is different from the dense vegetation. Plants and conifers characterize the vegetation.
Winding paths and staircases lead you through the square. You’ll find shade from various trees. These include hornbeams, birches and Hungarian oaks.
The old railway lines have become rich in biodiversity. Rare species thrive here. The Sentier Nature follows the old tracks. It showcases three vegetation layers like prairie and woodland.
Place Charles Péguy has evolved into a beloved space. It meets the diverse needs of its users. It’s a place where nature and community intertwine.