Gazing upon Nozay, one can’t help but be drawn into its rich history. Nozay, a commune nestled in the Essonne department of Île-de-France, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Nozay sits just 24 kilometers southwest of the heart of Paris. The name Nozay itself whispers tales of the past, derived from the Gallo-Roman *NUCARETU, meaning “place planted with walnut trees.” This nod to its natural heritage sets the stage for a journey through time.
Nozay’s story intertwines with the powerful Knights Templar. In 1246, Hébert de Montlhery granted the Templars land and a dependency known as the membre de Noray. This marked Nozay’s place in the larger narrative of the Templar order. Later, after the Templars’ demise, the Knights Hospitaller inherited these holdings. However, over time, the membre was reduced to ruins, its lands usurped by neighboring lords. Even in the 18th century, attempts to reclaim it seemed to have failed, adding a layer of mystery to Nozay’s story.
The village’s history extends beyond the knights. Nozay, along with the neighboring La Ville-du-Bois, was once under the seigneurie of Marcoussis. Its church, dedicated to Saint-Germain-d’Auxerre, fell under the jurisdiction of the priory of Longpont, a connection documented as early as 1061. This reveals Nozay’s integration into the religious landscape of the time.
As you stand in Nozay, echoes of pivotal moments in French history resound. During the 1848 Revolution, a Liberty Tree was planted near the church. The mid-19th century saw the erection of a bust of Napoleon III within the town hall and school. The cemetery, initially surrounding the church, was relocated in 1967. These events paint a picture of Nozay’s active participation in the unfolding national drama.
Under the long leadership of Mayor Gaston Ratel (1902-1935), Nozay experienced significant modernization. Clean drinking water arrived in the early 1900s. The current church building was constructed in 1912. Public lighting illuminated the village in 1913. A monument to those lost in the First World War was erected in 1921. Drainage systems improved agriculture, particularly the cultivation of vegetables for the Parisian markets. By 1932, Nozay earned the prestigious title of “model village,” a testament to its progress and innovation.
Nozay also boasts notable landmarks. The town hall, originally a combined town hall and school, was designed by Parisian architect Muret in 1910. The church of Saint-Germain, with its distinctive bell tower dating back to the early 17th century, stands as a testament to enduring faith. The enigmatic Pierre des Templiers, possibly a remnant of an ancient cemetery cross, adds a touch of mystique. These physical structures connect visitors to the tangible history of Nozay.
Today, Nozay is a thriving community southwest of Paris. It is served by the A10 autoroute and various bus lines. Its population was approximately 4,465 in 2022. The spirit of the “model village” lives on. Nozay invites exploration and reflection on a journey through time, from its origins as a place of walnut trees to its modern-day vibrancy.