Parc de l'Ariana

Parc de l'Ariana is a large public park in Geneva's Petit-Saconnex district, right beside the Palais des Nations and the United Nations' European headquarters. Lawns, mature trees and a neo-Renaissance museum building make it one of the calmest corners of the city's diplomatic quarter.

Why is it called Ariana?

The land was once part of the extensive Varembé estate, which stretched from the road toward Pregny down to the lake. Its last private owner, collector and patron Gustave Revilliod, had a museum built in the grounds between 1877 and 1884, designed by architect Émile Grobéty. He named it Ariana after his mother, Ariane de la Rive. When Revilliod died in 1890, he left the whole estate to the City of Geneva.

How did the League of Nations and the UN end up here?

In 1929 the city handed most of the grounds to the League of Nations and received the Moynier and Bartholoni parks in return. That swap cleared the site for the building now known as the Palais des Nations. The park later stayed at the disposal of the United Nations, so flags and international institutions form the backdrop to your walk.

What can you see?

• Veteran trees. Around 120 specimens in the busiest parts of the park carry identification plaques, which turns a stroll into an easy lesson in tree species.
• The founder's grave. Revilliod rests in an oak grove on the former estate. He asked for the grave to be left unmarked.
• Musée Ariana. Since 1933 the museum has operated as Switzerland's museum of ceramics and glass, showing pottery, glassware and stained glass. Its collection exceeds 27,000 objects.
• Open space by the Palais des Nations. The wide lawns are a good place to rest after visiting the nearby institutions.

How do you get there, and when should you go?

The park sits by the Palais des Nations, north of the centre, close to the international quarter. For tram and bus lines and stops, check the local operator TPG's timetable. According to the city, the park is open every day around the clock and is free to enter. Daytime is best: spring and summer bring the densest greenery, while autumn colours the trees. The museum has its own opening hours, so check them before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parc de l'Ariana free?

Yes. The park is open to everyone, and the city lists it as accessible daily, 24 hours a day. Only museum exhibitions may charge admission.

What is inside the Musée Ariana?

Ceramics, glass and stained glass from a collection of more than 27,000 items, displayed in a 19th-century building commissioned by Gustave Revilliod.

Where does the name come from?

From Ariane de la Rive, the mother of Gustave Revilliod, who founded the museum and named it in her honour.

Is the park linked to the UN?

Yes. In 1929 the city gave most of the grounds to the League of Nations, and the park later remained available to the UN. It borders the Palais des Nations directly.