Here on Avenue Nungesser et Coli, can you imagine daring aviators soaring through the sky? This avenue in Paris commemorates two such heroes. It honors Charles Nungesser and François Coli.
Avenue Nungesser et Coli is located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. It stretches 340 meters in length and 15 meters in width. The avenue begins at Boulevard d’Auteuil. It ends at 14, Rue Claude-Farrère.
The street’s creation and naming occurred in 1929. This followed the annexation of land from Boulogne-Billancourt to Paris. The avenue serves as a boundary with Boulogne-Billancourt. Buildings with even numbers are actually in Boulogne-Billancourt. On the odd-numbered side stands the Stade Jean-Bouin.
Who were Nungesser and Coli? Charles Nungesser was a World War I ace pilot. He ranked third in France with 43 air combat victories. François Coli was an experienced navigator.
Together, they attempted a daring feat. They sought to make the first non-stop transatlantic flight from Paris to New York. Their plane was named L’Oiseau Blanc meaning The White Bird. It took off on May 8, 1927. Tragically, the plane disappeared. It was last sighted over Ireland.
Two weeks later, Charles Lindbergh successfully completed the journey. He flew solo from New York to Paris. Despite Lindbergh’s success, the disappearance of Nungesser and Coli remains a mystery.
Many streets in France bear the names of Nungesser and Coli. This avenue ensures their courage is not forgotten.
While here, notice the buildings around you. Number 22 was built in 1933 by architect Henri Bodet. Also note number 24. Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret designed this building together. It is known as the Immeuble Molitor. Le Corbusier lived in an apartment-atelier on the top two floors until his death in 1965.
The Immeuble Molitor stands out. It was the first residential building in the world with a fully glazed facade. The building features glass bricks and glazed panels. Le Corbusier’s apartment spans 240 square meters. Light floods the space through the glass walls.
Today, you can visit Le Corbusier’s apartment-atelier. It offers a glimpse into his life and work. You can see the studio where he painted and the office where he wrote. The apartment includes living spaces and a roof terrace. From there, you get sensational views of Paris.
Avenue Nungesser et Coli is more than just a street. It is a tribute to the spirit of adventure. It reminds us of those who dared to dream big. They pushed the boundaries of what was possible. Their story continues to inspire us today.