Picture the Château du Sart. Its elegant brick and limestone facade whispers tales of centuries past. This isn’t just any building in Villeneuve-d’Ascq. It’s a cornerstone of Le Sart a neighborhood steeped in history. Built in 1740 the château was rarely occupied by its owners the Fourmestraux family. It stands as a testament to a time when Le Sart was a quieter place. A far cry from the bustling district it is today.
Le Sart’s story begins long before 1740. Even in the 13th century a manor existed on this very spot. This is documented in an old deed among the records of Loos Abbey. Imagine the lives lived within those walls. The secrets they hold. The changes they’ve witnessed. The château itself isn’t the only historical landmark in Le Sart.
The neighborhood also boasts the Église du Sacré-Cœur. This brick church is the largest in all of Villeneuve-d’Ascq. Nearby you’ll find the Ferme Descamps. A beautifully restored farm. It’s one of the smallest of the 80 farms once dotted across the city. This little farm stands as a reminder of Le Sart’s agricultural past. It is now part of the local community center.
In the 1980s Le Sart underwent a dramatic transformation. The construction of the Babylone swimming center. It was the largest municipal investment ever undertaken at that time. This marked a shift. From a predominantly bourgeois area to one with a vibrant mix of residential styles. This includes the notable Babylone section. A large housing complex built in the typical style of ZUP zones.
But Le Sart’s character hasn’t been erased. It retains its charm and history. The name Sart itself is a nod to the land clearing work done here in the 12th century. In the Forest of Barœul. The name Babylone on the other hand? It’s a fascinating detail. It comes from a cabaret that existed in nearby Flers-lez-Lille back in the 18th century.
Today Le Sart is a vibrant blend of old and new. It seamlessly marries history and modernity. The château now sits within a beautiful 18-hole golf course. Its clubhouse perfectly complementing the historic setting. This blend of the past and present is what makes Le Sart such a captivating place. A quiet corner of history tucked away in the heart of a thriving city. A true gem of Villeneuve-d’Ascq.