Nestled at the eastern tip of Île Saint‑Louis, Barye Square spans 2,975 m² and was established in 1938. Its triangular layout is framed by two branches of the Seine to the south and northeast and by Boulevard Henri‑IV on the northwest side, offering remarkable views of the river and nearby bridges, particularly the Pont de Sully.

Dominating the square stands the Monument to Antoine‑Louis Barye, erected in 1894 following a design by Louis Bernier and sculpted by Laurent Marqueste, honoring the renowned animal sculptor born in Paris in 1795. The monument, built on its original stone pedestal and bronze decor, initially featured “Theseus Slaying the Centaur Bienor” and “Lion and Serpent.” These bronzes were melted down during the German occupation in 1942, but thanks to generous donors they were recreated and reinstalled in 2011 and 2014.

The square also features a rich and diverse plant palette: paulownias, weeping elms, false acacias, soapberry trees from China, Yew trees from Ireland, and above all a majestic Cedar of Lebanon planted on October 18, 1993, by Prime Minister Rafic Hariri and Mayor Jacques Chirac, symbolizing Franco‑Lebanese friendship. This harmonious blend of botanical heritage, artistic memory, and historical context creates an ideal setting for leisurely strolls and relaxation.

With wheelchair‑accessible paths, benches overlooking the Seine, and a small playground, the square appeals to families and those seeking a moment of peace. Open 24/7 year‑round, this quiet oasis contrasts with the lively riverbanks below, where Parisians and visitors stroll, jog, or relax on the lawns.

A memorable anecdote: during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics, Lady Gaga sang “Mon truc en plumes” by Zizi Jeanmaire beneath the square when delegations passed by.

This iconic square reflects Baron Haussmann’s urban planning legacy: it occupies the former terraced garden of the Bretonvilliers mansion, reshaped by the construction of Pont de Sully and the demolition of the Estacade walkway in 1932. Certified as an “Ecological Green Space” since 2007, it showcases the City of Paris’s commitment to urban biodiversity.