History of the park La Courneuve park is currently the 3rd largest open space in the Paris region, with a surface area of 400 ha, after the Boulogne woods (1,000 ha) and the Vincennes woods (850 ha). Located in the Northwest of the department, it stretches over 5 towns : la Courneuve, Saint-Denis, Stains, Dugny, Garges-les-Gonesse (Val d'Oise), on what used to be the great plain of France. The idea of creating a public walkway on the site dates back to 1934, but a preliminary project was not carried out until 1954 and the first plantations did not begin until 1960. In view of the size of the park, the work was done in phases, and parts were opened to the public as they were completed. The last phase to be conducted is the Cascades (Waterfalls) phase opened in 2003 ! The creation Vue aérienne, avant la création du parc What there was before the park Cereals were grown from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, then market garden produce (from 1820 onwards) to supply the capital. The evolution Vue aérienne, 1970 Prairie fleurie The 60s: the first works, a project by Mr. AUDIAS 136 hectares were laid-out recreating the countryside with woods and rustic meadows through which many paths pass. The 70s, a new project with new landscape architects Two teams of landscape architects created a totally artificial universe of dales, hills, lakes and view points. The 80s, more nature ! The public wanted to feel closer to nature. The three upper lakes were laid-out to create a better ecological balance. The 90s, creating the harmony The works in the area located to the north of the railway track were continued while a new management method was introduced to encourage biodiversity. The park today Près de 2 millions de visiteurs par an... With its natural resources and the many relaxation and leisure facilities provided, it is not surprising that the park is visited by almost 2 million people a year !