The Allée de Madrid, a charming street in the 16th arrondissement, whispers a tale of a forgotten royal palace. This grand avenue was once home to the Chateau de Madrid, a grand hunting lodge built by King Francis I in the 16th century. King Francis I, who was held captive in Madrid, was captivated by the city’s palaces. He decided to build his own replica of the Spanish royal residence here in the Bois de Boulogne. The name Allée de Madrid is a reminder of this historical connection. For a while, the chateau’s elegant halls echoed with laughter and the sounds of festivities, serving as a hunting retreat for French royalty. But as the French Revolution stormed through, this royal haven fell into ruin and was ultimately demolished in the 19th century. Though the chateau is gone, the name Allée de Madrid carries a whisper of the past, reminding us of the grandeur and beauty that once flourished here.
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.