From the heights of Mont Valérien a breathtaking panorama unfolds. Before us lies the legacy of the Communauté d’agglomération du Mont-Valérien. This isn’t just a geographical area. It’s a tapestry woven from threads of faith war and memory.
The Communauté d’agglomération du Mont-Valérien a union of three towns Nanterre Rueil-Malmaison and Suresnes existed from 2009 to 2015. It encompassed a rich history stretching back centuries. Long before the modern towns existed Mont Valérien held spiritual significance. Its name itself is shrouded in mystery with theories linking it to Valerian a Roman emperor or perhaps a hermit’s meditation.
For centuries the hilltop was a place of pilgrimage. A calvary stood as a symbol of faith attracting many. Hermits lived on its slopes. They toiled the land and practiced their devotion. One notable hermit Guillemette Faussart built a chapel near which she later died. Her tombstone remains in a museum in Suresnes a testament to this enduring spirituality. The area was also known for its vineyards. The rich soil produced wine enjoyed by many. This religious past is also significant because the stone from the hill was used in the construction of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Palace.
The peaceful past was punctuated by war. During the Franco-Prussian War the French army sought refuge here. Later during World War II Mont Valérien became a site of immense tragedy. Over a thousand hostages and Resistance fighters were executed within its fortress. The Memorial of Fighting France was built near the fortress. It serves as a somber reminder of their sacrifice. General de Gaulle himself inaugurated this memorial a place of remembrance and national tribute.
The Communauté d’agglomération du Mont-Valérien though short-lived left its mark. It showcased a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. Its history intertwined with faith war and resilience. This is more than just an area. It’s a story told in stone and memory. It’s the story of the Communauté d’agglomération du Mont-Valérien. A story that should not be forgotten.