The garden was originally private, created by Cardinal Richelieu in 1633.
The Colonnes de Buren, installed in 1986, were highly controversial when first unveiled.
The perimeter galleries were home to some of the first cafes and gambling dens in Paris during the 18th century.
A small bronze cannon is located in the central flowerbed; historically, it was rigged to fire at noon using sunlight to signal the time.
The garden inspired the design of many later urban squares throughout Europe.
The Jardin du Palais Royal is a symmetrical formal garden enclosed by 17th-century palace wings. It features a central fountain, lime tree alleys, and gravel paths. The perimeter galleries house high-end antique shops, galleries, and restaurants. The garden is noted for its installation of 260 black-and-white striped Buren columns in the adjacent Cour d'Honneur. It serves as a public space managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux. The garden is surrounded by the Ministry of Culture and the Comédie-Française. It remains one of the few quiet, enclosed green spaces in the dense 1st arrondissement.
From the center of the garden looking back toward the palace facade, or the geometric stripes of the Buren columns.
Bring a book and use the iconic green metal chairs scattered throughout the garden.
Explore the arcades for specialized shops selling vintage medals, rare stamps, and antique books.
Visit the Cour d'Honneur to see the Buren columns, which are technically outside the garden walls but part of the same complex.
Do not mistake the nearby busy shopping streets for the tranquil interior of the garden; avoid visiting during peak weekend lunch hours if seeking silence.
The garden closes to the public in the evening; check the main gates for seasonal sunset adjustments.
No cycling or ball games; remain on designated gravel paths; keep noise to a moderate level.
