2 Parc des Buttes-Chaumont This hilly park offers some beautiful views of the capital, particularly of Montmartre. Its grottos and waterfalls, suspension bridge, artificiallake and its folly perched atop a belvedere, give the park with a distinctive charm. Since 2008, Rosa Bonheur, an open- air cafe, has made evenings at the park lively and festive. 19th. M Buttes-Chaumont.o Place de la République With reduced traffic and more pedestrian 3 Belleville spaces, the Place de la République is an Cosmopolitan and trendy, this area is popular ideal place to stroll and a pleasant spot for its multicultural mix, the result of several for a break or a chat with friends, thanks waves of immigration. The area boasts lively to the chairs and tables that are scattered bars, artists’ studios, and a park. Situated throughout. With these amenities, the at the top of the Colline de Belleville (hill), square has regained its popular, convivial the park offers stunning panoramic views of and festive atmosphere. The impressive the French capital. A vineyard, planted with Monument à la Républi que statue in the 140 vines, is a surprising feature. centre of the square, an emblematic focal 20th. M Belleville.o point of public demonstrations, has also had a makeover. The Place de la République is the perfect meeting point for night owls who flock to the area’s numerous bars, con- cert venues, discotheques and theatres. 3rd, 10th and 11th. M République.o around Place de la République DID YOU KNOW? 1Canal Saint-Martin A few minutes from the square, the quays of At number 39 rue du Château d’Eau is the the Canal Saint-Martin are one of the nicest smallest house in Paris: 5 metres high, places to stroll. Cross from one bank to the 1.20 metres wide and 3 metres deep. It other via the little 19th-century footbridges, occupies the site of a former passage- and admire the colourful shop windows. way linking Rue du Château d’Eau to Rue Close to the Gare de l’Est, take a look at the du Faubourg Saint-Martin. The family former Couvent des Récollets (convent), who owned the passage decided to build built at the beginning of the 17th century. this house with its Lilliputian dimensions 10th. M République.o to put an end to incessant quarrels over inheritance. NORTH-EAST PARIS 57