“Cows in Paris?” you might ask. “Right here, in this chic city?” And you’d be right to be surprised! We’re standing on what used to be the Île aux Vaches, the “Island of Cows”. This little island, swallowed by time and urban development, once lay nestled in the Seine. Imagine: a peaceful pasture right here in the heart of Paris. During the Middle Ages, this island earned its name. It was a tranquil spot where local farmers brought their cattle to graze. The cows must have enjoyed a unique perspective on the bustling city growing around them. Over time, Paris continued to expand. In the late 17th century, the Île aux Vaches was joined with the neighboring Île Notre-Dame. This merger formed the Île Saint-Louis we know today. So, while you won’t find any cows here now, their legacy lives on in the very ground we stand on.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.