The Square of Île‑de‑France, inaugurated in 1914 on the former site of Haussmann’s morgue, spans 2,235 m² at the eastern tip of the Île de la Cité, right behind Notre‑Dame Cathedral. This small municipal garden, shaped like a triangle, offers an intimate atmosphere despite its proximity to busy tourist routes.

With its main entrance on Quai de l’Archevêché, the square offers exceptional views of the Seine and Notre‑Dame’s choir. Its lawn, shaded benches, and central straight pathway make it a perfect spot for reading, quiet contemplation, or a calm break away from Parisian hustle.

The site’s history is rich: originally a medieval dump known as “Motte aux papelards,” then a restricted garden for canons in the 17th century, it became in 1868 the site of a morgue designed by Émile Gilbert with a Greek‑temple façade. The morgue displayed corpses on twelve black marble tables behind glass, open to public view, until it moved to Quai de la Rapée around 1914. After demolition, the city established this square, named in 1929 “de l’Île‑de‑France.”

Another highlight: the Memorial of the Martyrs of Deportation, accessed through the square, designed by Georges‑Henri Pingusson (1954–1964). This monumental crypt features a discreet staircase, a sober underground space, yew hedges, a weeping willow dedicated to Nazi victims, and “Resurrection” roses honoring the Resistance. Inaugurated in 1962 by General de Gaulle, it is now a protected historical monument.

Today, the square attracts a mixed audience: tourists seeking calm, locals enjoying a hidden green spot, and visitors to the memorial. Its ambiance is peaceful, tinged with reflection and melancholy, accompanied by the gentle sound of Notre‑Dame’s bells and the murmur of the Seine.

Among anecdotes: Charlotte of Savoy, mother of Charles VIII, once disembarked here in ceremony; the garden was historically male‑only until the Revolution. Recent renovation plans by Bas Smets (2023) aim to unify this site with Square Jean‑XXIII by removing grilles and updating furnishings—sparking public debate and a “Save Notre‑Dame Squares” petition.

Practical info: Open from 8 AM to 8:30 PM (May–Aug), then gradually until 6:30 PM in autumn–winter. No restrooms, wifi, vending machines, or baby‑changing facilities. Wheelchair accessible, it’s ideal for a quiet stop or moving visit to the memorial.