Paris, February 9 – The historic Val-de-Grâce Gardens, originally established in the 17th century, have officially reopened to the public in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Closed since the summer of 2016 for a significant renovation, these 16,000 m2 green spaces are now accessible to visitors, offering an enhanced natural environment.
Extensive Renovation and Greening Efforts
The gardens, located at 74 ter boulevard du Port-Royal, welcomed the public once again at the end of January 2026. The multi-year renovation project focused on increasing the vegetated surface, which now covers 72% of the total area, up from 61% previously. This was achieved through the creation of new lawns and the planting of 252 new trees, including white and green oaks, lime trees, lilacs, magnolias, and Judas trees.
This extensive greening initiative aligns with the environmental objectives outlined in Paris’s bioclimatic Local Urban Plan (PLU), particularly in the fight against global warming. The diverse new flora contributes to the ecological richness of the area, providing a vital green lung within the urban landscape.
A Site Steeped in History and Heritage
The Val-de-Grâce Gardens were originally designed to surround the former Val-de-Grâce Abbey, commissioned by Queen Anne of Austria. The abbey was later converted into a military hospital during the French Revolution. The gardens themselves were classified as a historical monument in 1972, underscoring their cultural and architectural significance.
The recent renovation, carried out between 2025 and early 2026, meticulously restored the gardens while respecting their original 17th-century design. The work involved strengthening the soil and re-tracing the pathways, ensuring that the historical integrity of the site was preserved for future generations.
Future Home to a Digital Health Research Center
Adjacent to the revitalized gardens, the former military hospital, which ceased operations in 2016, is set to undergo another transformation. In the coming years, it will house PariSanté Campus, a new research center dedicated to digital health. This campus will bring together various institutes and a scientific community to conduct research on e-health, develop applications in the sector, and enhance medical care. The opening of PariSanté Campus is anticipated in 2029.
Visiting the Val-de-Grâce Gardens
The Val-de-Grâce Gardens are located at 74 bis boulevard de Port-Royal, 75005 Paris. The reopening offers both residents and tourists a serene escape and a chance to experience a piece of Parisian history amidst beautifully restored greenery.
Source: https://www.pariszigzag.fr/paris-au-quotidien/jardins-val-de-grace-paris/
