Bois de Vincennes is a well-known place popular with the inhabitants of Ile-de-France, but paradoxically little known.
A completely different reality also hides behind the bucolic image.
TF1 has explored this location with its various actors who work and sometimes live there.
The French capital sits right on the edge of the Bois de Vincennes, as seen in the TF1 report above. It is the largest playground for the residents of Ile-de-France with its 1000 hectares of meadows and forests. A famous place that belongs to Paris and yet escapes it.
The highest dungeon in Europe
Its famous castle, a medieval fortress, is dominated by the highest fortress in Europe. The location was strategic for the defense of the capital and the use of a beautiful hunting ground. After the revolution, the army settled in this fortified enclosure.
Recently completely renovated zoo
At the Vincennes Zoo, giraffes love linden leaves. Once a week, except in winter, they are entitled to this little treat that reminds them of their natural diet. This public zoo, inaugurated in 1934, was completely rebuilt about ten years ago. There are 180 species, presented as close as possible to their original environment.
Anyone who crosses the Bois de Vincennes is intoxicated by its space and moves in its own world. But behind this bucolic image is a completely different reality. The Republican Guard, which patrols daily, is tasked with contacting prostitutes and homeless people who have lived here for years.
The rest of our Bois de Vincennes report in the video at the top of this article.