The sophisticated garden a l’anglaise comprises a total of 12 hectares was finished in 1778, after a series of successful land purchase deals and a lengthy construction process. Though the park has undergone remodelling and transformation several times, its original spirit has been preserved. After the beheading of the king and the end of the monarchy in 1793, the park entered public ownership. As a result, part of its area was turned into a residential zone. Several decades later, Haussmann, the landscape architect for King Napoleon II, put an end to land claims in the park and protected it from further exploitation. It was decided that the former royal refuge should be made accessible to all Parisians. Part of Parc Monceau was opened to the public in 1861.

The modern layout of the park was designed by famous architects Alphand, Davioud and Barillet-Deshamps. Upon entering the park, the visitor sees a magnificent rotunda dating from the end of the 19th Century. One of the locals' favourite spots is a grotto with the first artificial cement stalactites, crafted by Combaz. The park features a large collection of various structures and installations brought from the remotest corners of the world. A small model of an Egyptian pyramid, Corinthian pillars, a small Dutch windmill and a Chinese fort can all be admired from close-up by visitors. The park was much loved by France's greatest artists. It was pictured on several of Claude Monet's masterpieces, who claimed that the place was a source of special inspiration to him. Well-known composer Hector Berlioz was also a frequent guest of the Monceau. Many of the famous figures who used to enjoy the quietness and peace of the park have been commemorated by statues. These include Frederic Chopin, Charles Gounod, Guy de Maupassant, Edouard Pailleron and Ambroise Thomas.

Park Monceau is very popular among families with children looking for a place to spend an entertaining afternoon. There are lots of playgrounds and sport facilities on its premises. Fans of extreme sports might be interested to learn that the first silk parachute jumper, Andre-Jaques Garnerin, landed in the park in 1797.

Sport lovers might want to make use of the park's prime quality paths and alleys to jog or ride a bike. On summer nights, entertainment options abound in the Monceau. You can choose from a calendar of diverse events, including theatre performances, music concerts and other special shows.

The garden is a perfect place for a romantic and relaxing stroll under the shade of wonderful green trees, with enchanting birdsong in the background. A picnic in the Monceau will certainly be an unforgettable experience. You might also bring a book and spend a day beside the small pond, enveloped by greenery and shaded by ancient ruins.