“A street named after a socialist in the heart of Paris?” Avenue Marx Dormoy, a seemingly ordinary Parisian street, holds a story that whispers of revolution, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a forgotten hero. Right here, in the 18th arrondissement, this bustling avenue stretches before us, a testament to the ever-evolving narrative of Paris. The avenue, originally a segment of the ancient road connecting Paris to Saint-Denis, bears the name of Marx Dormoy, a French socialist tragically assassinated in 1941. Before adopting its current name on July 7, 1945, Avenue Marx Dormoy wore many titles, reflecting the ebb and flow of history: Route Royale No. 1, Grande Rue, Rue de la Chapelle-Franciade, Grande Rue de la Chapelle, Rue du Faubourg-de-Gloire, and finally, Rue de la Chapelle. Look around and imagine the street’s past. Picture the grand buildings that have stood sentinel through the ages. The building at number 2, for instance, once housed Louise de Marillac, the compassionate soul who, alongside Vincent de Paul, founded the Daughters of Charity. Imagine the echoes of their charitable work still lingering in the air. But Avenue Marx Dormoy holds more than whispers of the past. It is a living tapestry woven with threads of triumph and tragedy. In 1963, the historian Jacques Hillairet documented the presence of several old houses along this very avenue, remnants of a bygone era. He noted the distinctive attics of number 28, the architectural charm of numbers 40-42, the enduring presence of number 52, and the steadfast character of number 70. Some still stand today, while others exist only in the memories held by these stones. Avenue Marx Dormoy is a testament to the enduring spirit of Paris, a city where the past and present coalesce to tell a story that continues to captivate the world.
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.