“Did this street really play a role in bringing clean water to Paris?” someone in our group wonders aloud. We’ve reached Rue de Freinville, a seemingly ordinary street with an extraordinary connection. Rue de Freinville runs alongside a portion of the Canal de l’Ourcq. This canal, completed in the 19th century, was a godsend to a Paris desperately short of clean water. Before that, Parisians relied heavily on the Seine, which, unfortunately, was also where they dumped much of their waste. Can you imagine the stench? The Canal de l’Ourcq, drawing water from a cleaner source, brought relief. It wasn’t a perfect solution, but it certainly improved the quality of life for many Parisians. As you stroll along Rue de Freinville, picture those early barges making their way down the canal, bringing not just goods but a precious resource – clean water – to the heart of Paris. It’s a reminder that even the most unassuming places can have fascinating stories to tell.
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.