Unusual fatigue, headaches, dizziness, dehydration, sleep disturbances: a heatwave is more than just a passing discomfort. When the thermometer climbs above 35°C, the human body struggles to maintain its temperature around 37°C. The most vulnerable—the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses—are particularly at risk of heatstroke.
In Paris, the phenomenon is exacerbated by the urban heat island effect. In the Marais district, many old buildings, which contribute to the unique charm of this area, often lack modern insulation and are covered by large zinc roofs, transforming into veritable thermal kettles. The heat accumulated during the day is released at night, sometimes preventing the temperature in the apartments from dropping below 30°C.
Contrary to popular belief, the Marais district is not particularly well-endowed with green spaces. The 3rd and 4th arrondissements together comprise only about 7,5 hectares of gardens and squares, a modest figure for such a dense and busy area. Yet, hidden behind the elegant townhouses and bustling streets are true havens of peace. Besides the Square du Temple, Square Georges-Cain, and Square Louis-XIII, the Marais is home to the Anne Frank Garden, accessible via a discreet cul-de-sac near the Centre Pompidou (Beaubourg), the gardens of the Hôtel de Sully and the National Archives, as well as the magnificent Jardin des Rosiers–Joseph-Migneret, a secret oasis of over 2,000 square meters nestled between the Rue des Rosiers and the Rue des Francs-Bourgeois. The Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sens completes this precious network of cool islands. During heat waves, these green spaces become invaluable refuges in one of the most urbanized areas of central Paris. During periods of heatwave, their prolonged opening takes on particular importance: in one of the most mineralized areas of central Paris, every tree and every patch of shade counts.
To offer some relief from the heat to residents, the municipality has just decided that Several green spaces will exceptionally remain open 24 hours a day. during the heatwave episode: the Square du Temple, the Square Émile-Chautemps, Jardin Leonor Fini, the Square Léopold-Achille, the Square Barye, the Square Charles-Victor-Langlois, the Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques, the Place des Vosges, the Jardin des Arts and the Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sens.
Another solution: take advantage school playgrounds open in the evening from 19pm to 22pm, notably the Daniel-Cordier (3rd) and Neuve-Saint-Pierre (4th) schools. Welcome oases of coolness in a neighborhood where shade is sometimes as precious as water.
Text: Katia Barillot
25.06.26
