Audio GuideLa Villette
Wide lawns with sculptures and fountains in urban park with a museum, a cinema and a music complex.
Park
Paris, France
Parc de la Villette is one of the largest parks in Paris, covering fifty-five and a half hectares in the nineteenth arrondissement. It was originally constructed on the site of former abattoirs dating back to the era of Napoleon the Third, but has since evolved into a vibrant cultural hotspot. Today, it is alive with science, music, and art, making it an ideal destination for inquisitive travellers.
In the mid-nineteen eighties, architect Bernard Tschumi re-envisioned the area, incorporating deconstructivist principles. He introduced twenty-six red metal follies, which are striking sculptural structures set out in a grid pattern, guiding visitors through a harmonious mix of open lawns, themed gardens, and innovative installations.
Highlights include Europe’s largest science museum, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, and the renowned La Géode IMAX dome. The Cité de la Musique, which houses the prestigious Conservatoire de Paris, and the Philharmonie host world-class performances. The park also boasts diverse themed gardens like the Jardin du Dragon and offers activities such as boat tours along the Canal de l’Ourcq and open-air film festivals.
Easily accessible via the Paris Metro, Parc de la Villette invites visitors to explore a unique combination of modern design, engaging attractions, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
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