Parc du Thabor
Bretagne
Parc du Thabor, located in the heart of Rennes, Brittany, is a renowned public park spanning over ten hectares. It uniquely combines the formal symmetry of French gardens, the naturalistic style of English gardens, and an extensive botanical garden. Originally part of the Saint-Melaine abbey's orchard lands, the park evolved from private monastic gardens into a cherished public space. Between 1866 and 1868, landscape architect Denis Bühler enhanced the park by designing lawns, French formal gardens, and English-style areas, creating a harmonious blend of garden traditions. The southern section, known as "the Catherinettes," was added in the early 20th century as an extension of the English garden. Today, the park is a prestigious, well-maintained urban oasis featuring elaborate floral decorations that change with the seasons. It offers visitors peaceful walking paths, varied plant collections, and a glimpse into Rennes' historical and cultural heritage. The park is easily accessible via multiple entrances and public transport, making it a beloved retreat for locals and tourists alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Parc du Thabor is during spring and summer when the floral displays are at their peak. The park is open year-round with free access through six entrances. Visitors are encouraged to explore the different garden styles and enjoy peaceful walks. Public transport options include bus lines C3 and 44 and the nearby Sainte-Anne metro station. There are no entrance fees, and the park is suitable for all ages. Booking tickets is not necessary as it is a public space.
Interesting facts
- •The park's name refers to Mount Tabor, a biblical mountain overlooking Lake Tiberias in Israel.
- •It blends three garden styles: French formal, English landscape, and botanical garden, which is rare for urban parks.
- •Denis Bühler, a notable 19th-century landscape architect, significantly shaped the park's design between 1866 and 1868.
- •The southern area called "the Catherinettes" was developed in the early 20th century as an extension of the English garden.
- •The park covers over ten hectares within the city center of Rennes, making it a large green space in an urban environment.
History
The origins of Parc du Thabor date back to at least 1610 when Benedictine monks named the hill after Mount Tabor from the Bible.
Initially, the land was part of the Saint-Melaine abbey's orchard and reserved for male monks.
After a major fire in 1720, the site became the seat of the bishopric, and part of the gardens served the bishop's palace.
During the French Revolution, ecclesiastical properties were nationalized, and in 1793 Rennes acquired the land, opening it as a public promenade.
The park also housed a botanical garden and natural history museum in the early 19th century.
Legal disputes over ownership occurred until 1814, but the city retained most of the gardens.
Later in the 19th century, Denis Bühler redesigned the park, giving it the characteristic mix of French and English garden styles it has today.
Place Guide
French Formal Gardens1866-1868
These gardens feature symmetrical layouts, manicured lawns, and ornamental flower beds arranged in geometric patterns, exemplifying classic French garden design.
English Landscape Garden1866-1868
A naturalistic garden area with winding paths, varied tree species, and informal planting, designed to create a serene and picturesque environment.
The CatherinettesEarly 20th century
Located in the southern part of the park, this area was developed in the early 20th century as an extension of the English garden, featuring lush vegetation and tranquil walkways.
Botanical GardenEarly 19th century
Established in the early 19th century, this garden houses a rich collection of plant species and was originally linked to the city's school of botany and natural history museum.
Contact
Phone: 02 23 62 19 40
