The square occupies the former site of the Notre-Dame cloister and the archbishop's residence, which were largely destroyed during the 1831 riots.
The central fountain, the Fontaine de la Vierge, was specifically designed to harmonize with the cathedral's Gothic architectural lines.
The garden was officially renamed from 'Square de l'Archevêché' to 'Square Jean XXIII' to commemorate the pontiff's visits to Paris.
It features a variety of mature trees, including horse chestnuts, which were historically pruned to frame the cathedral's architecture.
During the early 20th century, the park was a primary site for early cinematic experiments due to its unique lighting conditions against the cathedral.
Square Jean XXIII is a public garden situated on the southeastern tip of the Île de la Cité, immediately behind the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. The park is defined by its dramatic, unobstructed views of the cathedral's flying buttresses and eastern chevet. It was established in 1844 and later renamed to honor Pope John XXIII in 2006. The area contains a Gothic-style fountain designed by Alphonse Vigoureux that dates to 1845. As of June 2026, the park remains part of the extensive restoration zone surrounding Notre-Dame following the 2019 fire. Visitors can access specific viewpoints, though perimeter fencing may restrict traditional paths depending on ongoing post-reconstruction landscaping.
The path nearest the river edge looking back at the cathedral’s flying buttresses.
Check for temporary park closures, as the site has been subject to restricted access for the Notre-Dame reconstruction project.
Visit during the early morning to capture the eastern facade of the cathedral lit by the sunrise without crowd obstruction.
Bring a portable seat if you plan to stay long, as available benches near the site perimeter are frequently occupied.
Do not attempt to bypass construction barriers or fencing installed for the ongoing site restoration.
Subject to intermittent closures or restricted zones due to the ongoing Notre-Dame de Paris restoration project.
Standard Parisian public park conduct; stay on designated paths and respect perimeter signage related to construction.
