Tucked away in the tranquil commune of Marnes-la-Coquette, Avenue de la Fontaine de la Reine whispers tales of royalty and refreshing waters. Avenue de la Fontaine de la Reine translates to “Avenue of the Queen’s Fountain.” This charming avenue likely owes its name to a fountain favored by royalty, perhaps even Marie de’ Medici herself. While our current knowledge doesn’t reveal the precise location of the original “Queen’s Fountain,” the spirit of royal indulgence lingers in the air. Let’s imagine Marie de’ Medici, seeking respite from the Parisian bustle, venturing to this peaceful retreat. Perhaps she strolled along a similar path, shaded by trees, towards a gurgling fountain. In the 17th century, she commissioned the Medici Fountain in the Luxembourg Gardens, a testament to her love for the grandeur and artistry of her native Florence. Perhaps this “Fontaine de la Reine” in Marnes-la-Coquette offered a more private sanctuary, a hidden gem known only to a select few. Close your eyes and imagine the gentle splash of water, the rustling of leaves, and the quiet murmur of courtiers as the Queen sought solace in this tranquil haven. Avenue de la Fontaine de la Reine may not have a grand fountain today. But its very name evokes a sense of history, of royal presence, and of the enduring allure of water in a world often too busy and too dry.
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.