Longuesse

Hidden within the Île-de-France region, the commune of Longuesse whispers tales of ancient settlements and captivating history. Longuesse rests peacefully in the Val-d’Oise department of northern France. Its name, a mystery in itself, may derive from its elongated S-shape or perhaps from “long essart,” describing a lengthy clearing. Longuesse sits nestled in the valley of the Aubette de Meulan river. It’s a short trip west of Pontoise, northwest of Paris, and a stone’s throw from Meulan-en-Yvelines and Gisors. The commune is embraced by the Regional Natural Park of the Vexin Français, a testament to its natural beauty. Longuesse’s history stretches back to Neolithic times, evidenced by tools discovered at Franc-Val. Gallo-Roman remnants and a Merovingian necropolis further enrich its historical tapestry. In 918, Charles the Simple gifted the chapel and lands of Longuesse to the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, forever linking the village to this powerful institution. The heart of Longuesse beats within the Église Saint-Gildard, a historical monument since 1910. This church, once a possession of Saint-Germain-des-Prés Abbey, boasts a 12th-century choir and transept crossing in elegant Gothic style. The church was intended for grandeur, but it remains unfinished. Chapels replaced the missing transept arms during the flamboyant and Renaissance periods. The simple bell tower almost seems temporary, occupying half of the nave’s single bay. In 2019, modern stained-glass windows by Jean-Paul Agosti breathed new life into the church. Beyond the church, the 16th-century base of the cemetery cross stands as another historical monument. Two ancient crosses, the Croix d’Orléans and the Croix-Rouge, mark the landscape. Two covered wash houses, one on Rue du Moulin and the other on Rue de l’Aubette, speak of everyday life in times past. Longuesse even boasts appearances on film and television, adding a modern layer to its rich history. Today, Longuesse is a rural town, part of the Paris attraction area, but retaining its unique charm. It faces the challenge of declining population, but its spirit remains strong. The two-class school, the medical offices, and the restaurant “Les Randonneurs” or “Chez Marco” form the core of its community. As you stand in Longuesse, imagine the echoes of history whispering through the streets. From Neolithic tools to modern stained glass, Longuesse offers a journey through time, a testament to the enduring power of place and community.