Hidden amongst Parisian streets lies Square Van Vollenhoven. A tranquil oasis it offers a glimpse into the past.
Created in 1937 this square is more than just a green space. Its name honors Joost Van Vollenhoven a French colonial officer and administrator. He served from 1877 to 1918. His legacy lives on in this peaceful Parisian square.
The square boasts a unique feature a stepped fountain adorned with mosaics. This beautiful fountain was built for the 1931 Colonial Exposition at the Porte Dorée. The square’s history is rich. A statue of General Jean-Baptiste Marchand once stood proudly here. Erected in 1949 it was sadly destroyed in 1983. Some say anti-colonial activists were responsible. However this claim remains uncertain. The statue stood on a pedestal in front of a monument commemorating Marchand’s expedition.
Square Van Vollenhoven is easily accessible. You can reach it from Boulevard Poniatowski rue Marcel-Dubois or Place Édouard-Renard. The Porte Dorée metro station (line 8) and tram stop (line 3a) are nearby.
The square is a small but significant part of Paris’s history. Its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful fountain offer a moment of respite. It’s a testament to a complex past and a reminder of the men who shaped the history of France. Spend some time reflecting on its story. Imagine the lives touched by the individuals it commemorates. Square Van Vollenhoven is a quiet corner of Paris whispering tales of colonialism and remembrance.