Montsouris Park is a peaceful haven where Parisians meet for family walks, jogging and perhaps even a picnic… but don’t be fooled. Hidden underneath the apparent serenity of an English garden, this bucolic spot has had an unusual history punctuated by several strange events. The park appears in its fair share of legends, too. Among them is a story that dates back to the 9th century: After a bloody duel, William of Orange slayed the bloodthirsty giant, Isauré of Montsouris, and then had the body buried in the present-day park. That’s why Rue de la Tombe-Issoire bears his name: Issoire Tomb, or the Tomb of Isauré. Some believe that the ghost giant continues to haunt the grounds to this day – a few residents have even heard his bloodcurdling screams at night. Just a tall tale?
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