Grand Rock of the Paris Zoo, Rock structure and tourist attraction in the Paris zoo, Paris, France
The Grand Rocher du Parc Zoologique de Paris is a large concrete structure built to resemble a natural rocky mountain, rising about 65 meters (213 ft) inside the Paris zoo in the Bois de Vincennes. It can be seen from nearly every part of the park, and a path runs around its base through the different animal areas.
The Grand Rocher was built in the 1930s as part of the new zoo that opened in 1934, following a temporary animal display set up for the 1931 colonial exhibition. Over time, the structure aged and had to be closed to visitors while restoration work was organized and funded.
The Grand Rocher appears in the zoo's logo and is widely recognized as its symbol. Walking through the park, visitors naturally look toward it, and it gives the whole place a sense of identity that few other structures can match.
The Rocher sits inside the zoo in the Bois de Vincennes on the eastern edge of Paris, and it is visible from the main paths as soon as you enter. Access inside the structure is currently closed to the public while restoration work is underway, so it is worth checking for updates before your visit.
The Rocher was designed by engineer Charles Letrosne rather than an architect, which is unusual for such a prominent structure. A public fundraising campaign was launched to help cover the cost of the restoration, allowing anyone to contribute and follow the progress through photos and updates.
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