Located at the western tip of the Île-de-la-Cité, the Square of the Green Gallant is an intimate 1,642 m² park open 24/7, accessible via a staircase under the equestrian statue of Henry IV. Once small islets — including the Isle of Jews, site of the execution of the Templars in 1314 — the area was converted into a public garden in 1884 .

Named after the “Green Gallant” King Henry IV—renowned for his amorous exploits—the bronze statue placed on the bridge in 1818 overlooks the square.

The garden offers a bucolic stroll beneath weeping willows, chestnut and black walnut trees, catalpas, Bohemian olives and ginkgos. It earned the Ecological Green Space label in 2007, reflecting its pesticide-free maintenance, water conservation efforts, mulching and biodiversity focus.

Its wildlife is rich: mute swans, diving ducks (tufted ducks), gulls, moorhens, grebes, wagtails, and even urban rodents. A plaque commemorates Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Templars, executed in 1314.

Atmosphere: romantic, peaceful, appreciated by both Parisians and tourists. It’s often used for picnics, photos, or reading. At sunset, the golden light envelops the Seine, the Louvre, the Monnaie, and the Institut de France.

Practical info: free entry, open 24/7 including holidays, accessible via Pont Neuf metro (line 7), buses 24/27, and a Vélib station nearby. No restrooms, playground, or wifi. Dogs on leads are permitted.

Trivia: a fragment of rock from Montreal’s Île Sainte‑Hélène was placed here in 1967. The square has been immortalized by photographers Atget, Doisneau, painter Boitel and even Camille Pissarro from his Place Dauphine studio