The Square de la Roquette, established in 1977 on the former site of the Petite‑Roquette prison, spans nearly 1.9 ha, making it one of the largest gardens in the 11ᵗʰ arrondissement. At its main entrance stand the original guardhouses from 1836, once part of the prison gate, while five granite slabs to the east mark the former guillotine site used until 1899.

Within the park, a cascading fountain surrounded by palm trees sits at the top of gently rolling paths. Play areas below are a hit with families: slides, sandboxes, the “Tour Fiesta” structure, ping‑pong tables, a basketball court, and a pétanque area. A community garden adds to the neighborhood’s village-like charm.

You’ll stroll beneath a canopy of about twenty tree species—maples, cedars, eucalyptus—with a vantage point offering a bucolic outlook. Tranquility reigns, enhanced by birdsong near the dovecote and pigeon regulation nest.

History: Originally a convent site founded under Henry III in the 16ᵗʰ century, it became a prison for juveniles (1826) and adults (1836), later transformed into a cultural venue—with the Olympe‑de‑Gouges theater in its basement. Remaining elements—gatehouse, slabs, political prisoner plaque—give the park a profound historical resonance.

Visitors come for:

A peaceful break between Bastille and Père‑Lachaise

Quality family or friends’ time

A spontaneous history lesson via preserved artifacts

A scenic walk dotted with architectural notes

Clientele: local families, residents, students, cultural tourists.

Fun fact: the “20 steps” condemned prisoners walked to the guillotine still echo eerily for today’s visitors. The dovecote represents a thoughtful coexistence with urban wildlife—a lesser-known highlight.

Practical info:

Open: from 8 am weekdays, 9 am weekends; closes at 9:30 pm in summer, shifts seasonally.

Access: Metro Voltaire (L9), Philippe Auguste (L2), Père‑Lachaise (L2/L3); Vélib' stations nearby.