Meulan-en-Yvelines

Have you ever heard of a town in France named after a mill? Meulan-en-Yvelines, that’s the name. It’s a small village with a long and rich history. Founded by the Gauls, this place was where the river Seine was crossed. It’s a village with a strategic position, a fact that became clear centuries later when a famous military figure, Bertrand Du Guesclin, conquered it. He took it from the English in the 14th century during the Hundred Years’ War, a defining period in this town’s history. The town is, as you might guess, named after a mill, a word borrowed from the Gaulish term “Mediolanum” – literally “middle plain”. And yes, like its Italian counterpart Milan, this French Meulan is also situated on a flat, middle-ground plain. Meulan-en-Yvelines became a place of major events and a city well-known throughout France and Europe. The ancient church of Saint-Nicolas stands proudly on the hill, its impressive ruins a reminder of the town’s rich past. These ruins, you can actually still see them to the right of St. Nicholas. The town, a center of trade and crafts. Meulan-en-Yvelines’ history was a fascinating mix of military campaigns, cultural developments, and the ever-running mill that gave it its name. The place, however, is not just of historical significance. It’s also a place of natural beauty, with the peaceful banks of the Seine meandering through the town, forming a peaceful backdrop to its bustling streets. You can feel this charm and tranquility right here, on our walk through the town. So, let’s keep exploring the history and culture of this lovely French town!