Lost in the charming countryside of the Val d’Oise department Vallangoujard whispers tales of history. This unassuming village 45 kilometers north of Paris sits nestled in a valley. The Sausseron a small stream flows through it. Vallangoujard is part of the Vexin Francais Regional Natural Park. Its name Vallis-Angojart from 1165 hints at its ancient origins. It derives from the Germanic name Ingelgardis and the Latin word vallem meaning valley.
For centuries Vallangoujard thrived. It enjoyed a period of economic prosperity. A significant employer was Les Salaisons du Vexin a food processing plant. This factory later became Henri Antoine Salaisons. It employed nearly 90 people before closing. The closure resulted in a loss of 200000 euros in professional taxes for Vallangoujard. Agriculture remains important to the local economy. Two market gardening businesses continue to operate in the area.
Vallangoujard’s rich history is etched into its stone. Three historical monuments stand as testament. The classified Saint-Martin Church dominates the landscape. This church is a testament to Gothic architecture in a rural setting. Its interior is remarkably preserved. Its facade features an ogive triple archivolt portal. It’s flanked by colonnettes with capitals. A square stair turret adds a unique architectural detail. The church’s nave boasts pointed arches supported by impressive columns. They have beautiful hooked capitals.
Beyond the church lie Gallo-Roman archaeological sites. One at La Garenne is a privately owned 3500 square meter area. It contains various visible remains. Another site La Vallée de Cresnes belongs to the state. It’s part of a group of sites. Some of these sites are in the neighboring Épiais-Rhus.
Vallangoujard’s past also includes a narrow gauge railway. This Valmondois-Marines line operated from 1886 to 1949. The old station now serves as a residence. A charming covered wash house stands on the Sausseron. Its roof is supported by a single wooden pillar and the enclosing wall of a property. A small stone bridge over the Ru de Theuville may date back to Gallo-Roman times. This is based on oral tradition and the nearby ruins.
The renowned sociologist Georges Friedmann lived in Vallangoujard. He resided in the Maison des Champs from 1948 until his death. He wrote most of his works there. The village also holds the memory of filmmakers Jean Dréville and Walter Kapps. They both lived and are buried in Vallangoujard’s cemetery.
Vallangoujard a place where history and nature blend. This picturesque village is more than just a rural idyll. It is a living testament to centuries of life. It is a place that continues to evolve. Its charm is undeniable.