In the heart of Le Marais, the Gardens of the National Archives offer an unexpected bucolic getaway. Opened to the public in 2011, these gardens designed by Louis Benech span approximately 8,000 m², blending classical courtyards with romantic paths. Visitors enter through the courtyard of Hôtel de Soubise, then proceed via Ruelle de la Roche into five landscaped spaces, each associated with a particular mansion: Rohan, Assy, Breteuil, Fontenay, and Jaucourt.

The Hôtel de Rohan garden, laid out in 1705, features a large formal lawn framed by plane tree alleys—ideal for picnics or relaxing in the sun. More intimate, the Assy and Breteuil gardens, from the 19th century, present a lush romantic setting with a stream, a unique Himalayan chestnut tree, and flowering shrubs like mock orange, lilac, and peony.

The Fontenay garden, inspired by Achille Duchêne, showcases a thousand-flower parterre surrounded by boxwood and dotted with arbors—an enchanting springtime display. The Jaucourt garden, designed as an orchard, surprises with pear trees, quince, tulip trees, hackberries, and pine trees, reflecting the site’s botanical diversity.

Louis Benech’s intervention aimed to connect these spaces into a coherent journey, highlighting both the gardens’ historical heritage and the richness of their 300 plant species. His work, supported by 2008 renovations, has restored the gardens’ former glory.

Atmosphere & audience: elegant and tranquil, the gardens attract calm-seekers, cultural visitors, families seeking a quiet break, and couples in search of romance. It’s ideal for reading, discreet picnics, and architectural photography.

Fun facts: The 150-year-old Himalayan chestnut is the only one in Paris. The gardens were opened to the public during Music Day in 2011.

Visitor info: free entry. Opening hours: 8 am–8 pm from March to October; 8 am–6 pm in winter. Wheelchair accessible. Best visited in spring-summer for blooms. Transport: metro Rambuteau (L 11), Hôtel de Ville (L 1), Arts et Métiers (L 3), Saint‑Paul (L 1); bus 29, 75; Vélib’ bike stations nearby.