Carrousel Garden between the Louvre and Tuileries. Maillol sculptures

Carrousel Garden between the Louvre and Tuileries. Maillol sculptures

Welcome to the Jardin du Carrousel, a hidden green gem nestled in the heart of Paris, between the Louvre and the Jardin des Tuileries.

This unassuming yet enchanting garden is the perfect stop for travelers seeking peace and beauty. Discover a place where history, art, and nature blend harmoniously, just steps away from the capital’s most iconic landmarks.

Note: at the end of the text you will find
1/ Places to visit nearby
2/ A photo gallery linked to the article
3/ Your Bonus: 5 essential tips to help you plan and make the most of your stay in Paris

Location

Located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, the Jardin du Carrousel stretches along Avenue du Général Lemonnier, between the Palais du Louvre and the Jardin des Tuileries. Its strategic location makes it a must-see stop for visitors exploring the historic heart of Paris. Easily accessible on foot from the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre metro station, it is also close to bus routes and cycle paths.

Originally, the Palais des Tuileries, which burned down in 1871, was demolished in 1883 and never rebuilt, stood roughly where Avenue du Général Lemonnier lies today. In the photo gallery below, you can see the overall layout, from right to left (east to west): the Louvre, the Jardin du Carrousel, the site of the former Palais des Tuileries, now gone, followed by the Jardin des Tuileries, and then Place de la Concorde.

Origin of the name

This garden owes its name to the Carrousel of 1662, a grand equestrian festival organized by Louis XIV to celebrate the birth of his son. At the time, this area served as a riding ground for military exercises and royal spectacles. The name has endured, even after the site was transformed into a green space in the 19th century, under the initiative of Napoléon III.

An imperial past

The Jardin du Carrousel is a remnant of Paris’s imperial past. During the Second Empire, the architect Adolphe Alphand, renowned for his landscape designs, reshaped the area to harmonize with the Tuileries Palace (which once stood where the current Avenue du Général Lemonnier is located) and the Jardin des Tuileries, situated on the other side of the now-vanished palace.

The garden has retained its classical style, with symmetrical paths, flowerbeds, and elegant statues, typical of French formal gardens.

What you can see in this garden

Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

One of the showpiece attractions of the garden is the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, a majestic monument built between 1806 and 1808. Commissioned by Napoléon I, it celebrates the military victories of the Grande Armée.

Inspired by the Arch of Constantine in Rome, it is adorned with bas-reliefs and crowned with a bronze quadriga. The original, looted by the Venetians and taken to France by Napoléon I, was returned to the Italians after the Emperor’s fall. Today, in Paris, it features a replica of the Horses of Saint Mark in Venice. For more information, click on Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel.

The garden also houses remarkable statues

History and Victorious France, works by Antoine-François Gérard, flank the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, marking the main entrance to the garden.

It primarily houses an open-air collection of bronze and lead sculptures by the sculptor Aristide Maillol. They were installed starting in 1965 at the initiative of André Malraux. These 18 to 20 statues depict monumental and harmonious female figures. They are listed below with their geographical coordinates to help you locate them. (Name, Year of creation, Location):

  • L’Action enchaînée 1905 48° 51′ 45″ N, 2° 20′ 03″ E

  • L’Air 1938 48° 51′ 45″ N, 2° 19′ 53″ E

  • La Baigneuse aux bras levés 1921 48° 51′ 44″ N, 2° 19′ 56″ E

  • La Baigneuse drapée 1937 48° 51′ 45″ N, 2° 19′ 58″ E

  • La Douleur 1912 48° 51′ 41″ N, 2° 19′ 55″ E

  • Summer 1910 48° 51′ 42″ N, 2° 19′ 56″ E

  • Flora 1910 48° 51′ 42″ N, 2° 19′ 55″ E

  • Homage to Cézanne 1912 48° 51′ 46″ N, 2° 19′ 53″ E

  • Reclining Young Woman 1921 48° 51′ 41″ N, 2° 19′ 54″ E

  • The Mediterranean 1905 48° 51′ 44″ N, 2° 20′ 00″ E

  • The Mountain 1925 48° 51′ 45″ N, 2° 19′ 58″ E

  • The War Memorial of Port-Vendres 1923 48° 51′ 42″ N, 2° 19′ 51″ E

  • The Night 1909 48° 51′ 40″ N, 2° 19′ 57″ E

  • The Nymph 1930 48° 51′ 44″ N, 2° 19′ 57″ E

  • Pomona 1910 48° 51′ 42″ N, 2° 19′ 56″ E

  • Draped Pomona 1921 48° 51′ 41″ N, 2° 19′ 54″ E

  • The River 1938 48° 51′ 43″ N, 2° 19′ 52″ E

  • The Three Graces 1938 48° 51′ 45″ N, 2° 19′ 58″ E

  • Venus 1928 48° 51′ 44″ N, 2° 19′ 57″ E

  • Île-de-France 1933 48° 51′ 43″ N, 2° 19′ 54″ E

The most famous are:

Don’t miss the Medici vases, copies of the original Florentine pieces, which line the pathways.

A breathtaking view of the Louvre

For art lovers, the Jardin du Carrousel offers an uninterrupted view of the Louvre. From its terraces, you can admire the glass Pyramid and the museum’s historic façades. It’s the perfect spot for memorable photos, especially at sunset, when golden light bathes the monuments.

It’s also a garden, a place to relax

The garden is also a popular spot for relaxation among Parisians and tourists alike. Its shaded benches, well-maintained lawns, and fountains invite visitors to take a break.

In summer, visitors can sit by the ponds or stroll along the paths lined with roses and lavender. It’s the perfect place for a picnic break or a quiet read.

In winter, the garden takes on a magical atmosphere. The trees are lit up, and a temporary ice rink is sometimes set up near the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. It’s a magical time to discover this place in a new light, between twinkling lights and festive vibes.

The Jardin du Carrousel is a hidden gem of Paris

Unlike the often crowded Tuileries, it offers a more intimate and preserved atmosphere. Its blend of history, art, and nature makes it a unique place where every visitor can find their own joy—whether for a romantic stroll, a photo session, or a meditative pause.

For families, the garden is a playful space. Children love running along the paths or playing near the fountains. In summer, workshops and activities are sometimes organized, such as treasure hunts or outdoor drawing sessions. It’s a fun way to discover the history of Paris while having a good time.

The Jardin du Carrousel is also a place steeped in symbolism. It embodies the evolution of Paris, from monarchy to Empire, through Haussmann’s major works. As you stroll here, you walk in the footsteps of Louis XIV, Napoleon I, and the millions of visitors who have shaped the city’s history.

This garden is also a witness to urban change. Once reserved for the elite, it is now open to all. Its layout reflects the values of the Republic: a public space where anyone can find respite, regardless of origin or status. It is this inclusivity that makes it so beloved by Parisians.

In short, the Jardin du Carrousel is far more than just a green space. It is an open-air museum, a peaceful haven, and a meeting point between past and present. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking tranquility, this garden will captivate you. So, during your next visit to Paris, take the time to stop by—you won’t regret it!

Don’t forget to visit our website visitingparisbyyourself.com for more visit ideas and practical tips to explore Paris like a local. Enjoy your stay in the City of Light!

Nearby attractions

The Jardin du Carrousel is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Louvre Museum, the Musée de l’Orangerie, and Place Vendôme. Shopping enthusiasts can head to the Galeries Lafayette or the luxury boutiques along Rue Saint-Honoré.

You can explore the area by following our self-guided walks starting from the Louvre Museum:

And you can also see or visit (and book online when available) the following nearby Points of Interest:

Cruise departures are also available nearby:

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Photos

Jardin du Carrousel-L'Histoire_by_Antoine-François_Gérard_and_Arc_de_Triomphe_du_Carrousel,_Paris_2014.jpgJardin du Carrousel-Aristide_Maillol_-_La_Rivière_-_Plomb_-_1938.jpgJardin du Carrousel-Aristide_Maillol_-_La_Montagne_-_Plomb_-_1937.jpgJardin du Carrousel-L'Air_by_Aristide_Maillol,_Paris_7_October_2012.jpgJardin du Carrousel-Les_3_nymphes_d'Aristide_Maillol.jpgJardin du Carrousel-Aristide_Maillol_-_La_Nymphe_-_1930.jpgJardin du Carrousel-Aristide_Maillol_-_Jeune_fille_allongée_-_Bronze_-_1921.jpg