Audio GuideLa Villette

Wide lawns with sculptures and fountains in urban park with a museum, a cinema and a music complex.

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Parc de la Villette is one of Paris’s largest parks, spreading over fifty-five and a half hectares in the nineteenth arrondissement. Originally built on the site of former slaughterhouses dating back to the time of Napoléon the Third, the park has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Today, it pulses with science, music, and art, making it an ideal destination for curious travelers.

In the mid-eighties, architect Bernard Tschumi reimagined the space, embracing deconstructivist ideas. He introduced twenty-six red metal follies, striking sculptural structures arranged in a grid, which guide visitors through a blend of open lawns, themed gardens, and innovative installations.

Key attractions include Europe’s largest science museum, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, and the famous La Géode IMAX dome. The Cité de la Musique, which houses the esteemed Conservatoire de Paris, and the Philharmonie bring world-class performances to life. The park also features diverse themed gardens, such as the Jardin du Dragon, and offers activities like boat tours along the Canal de l’Ourcq and open-air film festivals.

Easily reached via Paris Metro Parc de la Villette invites visitors to explore a unique blend of modern design, engaging attractions, and a lively cultural scene.

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