Right here, before us, lies a hidden gem. It is \u00cele Casenave. This island, a verdant sliver in the Marne, boasts a history as rich as the river that surrounds it.
Originally known as \u00cele de Chennevi\u00e8res, its story stretches back to the 15th century. The island eventually caught the eye of Maurice Casenave. He was a diplomat and friend to Paul Claudel. Casenave purchased the island in 1924 from the commune of Chennevi\u00e8res-sur-Marne. He later sold it to Saint-Maur-des-Foss\u00e9s in 1934.
Following Casenave’s death, the municipality honored him. It renamed the island after its former owner. So it became \u00cele Casenave.
This slender island stretches 700 meters. It is remarkably long. Yet it only reaches about 50 meters at its widest point. \u00cele Casenave is the longest island in this bend of the Marne.
But the island’s story doesn’t end with its ownership. In 1870, the impressionist painter Camille Pissarro immortalized \u00cele Casenave. He captured its beauty on canvas. His painting showcased the island’s iconic poplar trees. Today, this artwork resides in the Mus\u00e9e d’Orsay. Sadly, the tempest of 1999 felled the trees.
\u00cele Casenave is part of a protected archipelago. It is recognized for its diverse ecosystem. Over 300 species call these islands home. Thirteen are classified as rare and three are protected.
Imagine the fishermen casting their nets here. The “gords” which are the fishing nets, gave the nearby islands their name. \u00cele Casenave together with the neighboring islands offer refuge to herons. Mallard ducks and moorhens can also be spotted.
The association “Au fil de l’eau” organizes cruises. These cruises allow visitors to discover the hidden treasures of the Marne.