Did you know that there was a secret garden just two minutes from the Sacré-Cœur? Little-known to Parisians, les Arènes de Montmartre are rarely open to the public. Yet they’re well worth a visit. Shall we show you around?
A secret, romantic garden, open since 1940
This little perched garden, dotted with lavender and rosemary, is a protected area. Accessible only during feast days and special events, the Arènes de Montmartre are a must-see at least once in your Parisian life.
At the outset, nothing predestined this venue to become so confidential. Thought of as a buttress, the latter was erected to support the weight of the Sacré-Coeur as well as the water reserve located just above. The hill of Montmartre, which is a former large gypsum quarry, has in fact been weakened by its former use: the subsoil is pierced in a multitude of galleries that had to be supported so as not to see the basilica sink one day.
It wasn’t until the 1980s that this garden was given a whole new lease of life. Indeed, thanks to the Ministry of Culture at the time, it became a venue with a cultural vocation, able to accommodate up to 300 people in its amphitheater.
A unique place where art meets
This enchanting hidden garden has, since 2018,been a favorite venue for all classical music lovers. Indeed, every year in the fine season, the finest musicians and singers gather to celebrate music in this bucolic setting. The “Les Arènes Lyriques” festival offers a rich program to discover every summer evening. An opportunity to discover great classics, but also to applaud talented artists. Curled up in this cocoon of greenery, as night falls,the show is just fabulous!
What’s more, from September 12 to 21 septembre, the garden will once again be open to the public thanks to the Festival solidaire des Arènes de Montmartre. A multidisciplinary event where you’ll be able to admire contemporary dance, live concerts and even theater!
In short, if you ever get the chance to visit this garden, we advise you not to hesitate for a single second!