Discovering Parc Sainte-Marie: A Testament to Nancy’s Inclusive Beauty
In the heart of Nancy, France, Parc Sainte-Marie invites visitors to step into a world where history, nature, and community intertwine. Spanning 7.5 hectares, this lush green haven is the city’s second-largest park, just a short stroll from the celebrated Musée de l’École de Nancy and the restorative Nancy Thermal baths.
The story of Parc Sainte-Marie begins in 1620, when Jesuits established a sanctuary here and named it Sainte-Marie. Over the centuries, the grounds evolved—from a sacred space to a private pleasure garden in 1808, filled with remarkable trees such as weeping sequoias, tulip trees, and towering oaks. In 1904, the city of Nancy recognized its significance, purchasing the park and opening it to the public the following year.
Parc Sainte-Marie’s cultural prominence soared in 1909 when it hosted the Exposition Internationale de l’Est de la France. While most exhibition structures are now gone, one enduring treasure remains—the charming Alsatian House. Today, this building lives on as the Maison de la Nature, offering environmental exhibits and hands-on activities that connect visitors to the natural world.
Inclusivity lies at the heart of the park’s identity. In 2007, it earned the “Tourisme et Handicap” label, recognizing its accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Three years later, it was awarded the “Jardin Remarquable” designation, honoring its exceptional landscape design and botanical richness.
The park is also a gathering place for community celebration. Each May, it bursts into vibrant color for Nature en Fête, the region’s largest plant market, attracting gardeners, families, and nature lovers from near and far. Playgrounds, basketball courts, and pétanque areas offer recreation for all ages, making it as lively as it is peaceful.
Whether you’re wandering along winding pathways, admiring the diverse plant life, or taking part in one of its many events, Parc Sainte-Marie embodies the spirit of Nancy—a city where heritage, beauty, and inclusivity thrive together.