“The year is 1929.” Avenue du Général Maunoury, freshly paved and lined with newly planted trees, stands as a testament to a war hero. This avenue, named after Marshal of France, Michel Joseph Maunoury, is a relatively new addition to Paris’s 16th arrondissement. It replaced sections of the old Thiers wall, a stark reminder of conflict, with a symbol of peace and remembrance. The avenue begins at Place de Colombie and stretches 560 meters to Place de la Porte-de-Passy. As you stroll down Avenue du Général Maunoury, take note of the unique architectural style of the buildings. The buildings with the numbers 1 through 9, known as the Walter buildings, are great examples of 1930s architecture. While most of the avenue is lined with residences, it also leads you to a place of quiet reflection, the Square des Écrivains-Combattants-Morts-pour-la-France, a square honoring writers who died for France. Avenue du Général Maunoury ends at the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, one of the largest parks in Paris. But before you wander off, glance back at the avenue. It’s a peaceful street that subtly reminds us of the complexities of history.
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.