Parc Monceau - A Great Way to Spend an Afternoon
The Parc Monceau is a hidden gem in the elegant 8th district surrounded by fine oriental and decorative museums. The Duke of Chartres, future Duke of Orleans and who later became Philippe Egalite purchased the land in 1769 ( for the history buffs out there).
This parc is very unique, the grounds are scattered wth follies and landscaped after the fashion of English and german gardens of the time. It started with a pavillion being built in the center and more elements were added as time and fashions and owners came and went. Pyramid, Roman temples, feudal ruins, Dutch windmills, and statues of writers and musicians
Around 1860 a bridge, grotto and waterfall was added which lends further to the parc's romantic feel. During the second Empire, luxury houses and avenues sprung up around the area
The rotunda, known as the Chartres Pavillion, was originally used as a farmer's tollhouse. Enter through the magnificent finely wrought gold-edged iron gates, designed by Davioud and enjoy this beautiful parc which is a favorite of local residents.
Exit the parc by way of Valasques Avenue where at number 7 you will find the Cornuschi Museum, which has an impressive collection of Oriental works. Also, don't miss the Musee Nissim de Commando - a personal favorite.
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