Parc du Contades
Parc du Contades is a 7.9-hectare public park in Strasbourg's Neustadt, between avenue de la Paix and the river Aar. Created in 1764 by Marshal de Contades, it keeps a bandstand, a pond and tall trees, a stone's throw from the Grande Synagogue de la Paix. A calm, shady stop served by tram, ideal for a breather between two visits.
From shooting ground to promenade
The park bears the name of Marshal Louis Georges Érasme de Contades, who had it laid out in 1764 on a former shooting ground known as the Schiessrain. When the Neustadt was built during the German period, the southern part of the park was cut off by the new street layout. In 2013 the paths were redrawn to come closer to the original plans. The park belongs to the City of Strasbourg and remains one of the oldest promenades in this district.
A bandstand from place Broglie
The Contades bandstand was built in 1882 on place Broglie before being moved to the park at the end of the 19th century. On the edge of the pond, a pavilion was also transferred here in 1958. Around them, families find children's play areas, sports facilities and pétanque courts. The shady lawns draw local residents at lunchtime as well as at weekends.
Synagogue de la Paix and Manoir du Contades
On the edge of the park stands the Grande Synagogue de la Paix, inaugurated on 23 March 1958, the main place of worship of Strasbourg's post-war Jewish community. Nearby, the Villa Osterloff, known as the Manoir du Contades and built in 1901-1902, has been a classified historic monument since 1992 and was restored in 1993. These two buildings give the park a varied architectural setting, between post-war reconstruction and the Belle Époque.
A breather on the banks of the Aar
The park is bounded by avenue de la Paix, rue Turenne, boulevard Gambetta, rue des Arquebusiers and the river Aar, in the district that bears its name. The Parc du Contades tram stop, on lines B and E, is at its gates. You can extend the walk along the Aar, head to place de la République and its grand German-era buildings, or carry on to Parc de l'Orangerie and the European quarter.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Parc du Contades?
In the Neustadt, north of the historic centre, between avenue de la Paix and the Aar. The Parc du Contades tram stop (lines B and E) is right next to it.
Is the park good for children?
Yes, it has children's play areas, sports facilities and large shady lawns around the pond.
Why is it called Contades?
It is named after Marshal Louis Georges Érasme de Contades, who had it laid out in 1764 on a former shooting ground.
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