Ile Rousseau, Geneva

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A medieval bastion sitting in the middle of the Rhone, now called Ile Rousseau, is reached by crossing the Pont de Bergues. It has a bird compound and a small restaurant located within it's area. In addition, and where the name comes from is a large statue of Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-78).

The writer and philospher was one of geneva's most distinguished citizens. he was the son of a clockmaker, and priased the city in his works, however his views caused some concern with the authorities and they burnt his books. In 1834, 56 years after his death, the statue was erected and reamins there today.

A little man-made island in the middle of the lake pays tribute to Jean Jacques Rousseau, the thinker. A bronze statue of the man occupies the centre of the ground connected by bridges/walkways.

Meanwhile, swans and water fowls wade around the lake to your amusement.

Rousseau island is a romantic spot and a perfect place to take a stroll.

Surrounded by walls at the end of the 16th century, it served as a bastion for the city. In 1628, it was transformed into a shipyard and carried the name "Island of the Boats".

It was only in 1832, with the construction of the Bergues bridge which was linked to the island by a footbridge, that it would take on the name of the great Genevan philosopher, Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

Transformed into a public garden, with a statue of this great man sculpted by the Genevan Pierre Pradier, a pavilion, now converted into a restaurant, was added in 1921.