Large round basin

The Large Round Basin is a circular water feature in the eastern section of the Tuileries Garden with open views toward the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel and the Louvre Museum. It sits at the center of carefully designed garden paths and is surrounded by symmetrically placed statuary.

André Le Nôtre designed this central water feature in the 17th century as a core element of his grand plan for the formal gardens. The basin was part of the ambitious scheme to reshape the entire landscape for royal purposes.

Children launch toy sailboats onto the water while visitors relax in the green metal chairs that surround the basin. This simple play remains a treasured part of the garden experience for locals and tourists alike.

The basin remains accessible during garden hours from early morning until evening, with extended hours until 11 PM during summer months. The surrounding area offers plenty of space to walk around and find a spot to sit.

The water creates mirror-like reflections of surrounding statues and monuments that enhance the geometric order of the garden paths. These reflective surfaces were part of Le Nôtre's clever design strategy to extend the visual depth throughout the space.

Location: 1st arrondissement of Paris

Part of: fountains in the Tuileries garden

GPS coordinates: 48.86290,2.32940

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:26