Hidden amongst the elegant avenues of Paris’s 16th arrondissement lies Square Malherbe. A tranquil oasis it’s a world away from the city’s usual hustle. This small square holds a surprisingly rich history.
Square Malherbe wasn’t always a place of peace and quiet. Before 1932 it was bastion number 62 of the Thiers enclosure. Imagine the imposing walls and the strategic importance of this military outpost. It protected Paris. It witnessed history. Now only the square remains.
Opened in 1932 the square was named after the renowned French poet Francois de Malherbe. He lived from 1555 to 1628. Malherbe was a significant figure in French literature. He reformed the French language. His influence on poetry and prose is still felt today. The square stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. A fitting tribute to a literary giant.
The square’s dimensions are modest. It measures 68 meters long and 16.3 meters wide. Yet it’s perfectly proportioned. Its understated elegance mirrors Malherbe’s refined poetry. It starts at 134 Boulevard Suchet. It ends at 41-47 Avenue du Maréchal-Lyautey. These Parisian addresses add to its charm.
Today Square Malherbe offers Parisians and visitors a refuge from the city’s energy. It’s a place to pause and reflect. To appreciate the beauty of a simple but well-designed space. It’s a testament to Paris’s ability to blend its past with its present. A hidden gem for those who know where to look. Its quiet dignity speaks volumes. It whispers stories of war and peace. Of poetry and reform. Of a life well-lived and a legacy that endures.