Petite Ceinture du 16e, Linear park in 16th arrondissement, France

Petite Ceinture du 16e is a linear park following a former railway corridor, with walking paths lined by trees and diverse vegetation along its entire length. The park runs gently through the neighborhood, providing continuous green space from one end to the other.

The Auteuil railway line, 8 km long, opened in 1854 at the initiative of the Pereire brothers to link Saint-Lazare with Batignolles, Passy and Auteuil. In 1867 it was integrated into the 32 km Petite Ceinture, though freight traffic on this stretch stayed limited and the metro competed with it. Circular passenger service ended in 1934, the Auteuil viaduct was demolished in 1962, and the line closed in 1985 when its northern part joined the RER C.

Educational panels throughout the park explain the local plant and animal life that thrives here. This green space serves as a retreat for neighborhood residents who want to connect with nature without leaving the city.

The park has several entry points from surrounding streets with clear paved walkways that are easy to navigate for all visitors. Signage helps you find your way along the route without getting lost.

Wildlife has naturally reclaimed this former industrial space, creating a place where animals thrive alongside visible remnants of the old railway infrastructure. Look closely and you can spot parts of old rails and station elements partially hidden beneath vegetation.