How did Cergy become the unlikely heart of Val-d’Oise? You might be surprised to know that Cergy Préfecture wasn’t always the bustling hub it is today. Back in the 1960s, this area was little more than a humble village surrounded by fields. When plans for a “new town” began to take shape, Cergy Préfecture was chosen as the central point. This decision raised eyebrows. Why place a préfecture, a symbol of authority usually found in a city center, in the middle of nowhere? The answer lies in the ambition of post-war France, eager to embrace modernity and create a new urban landscape. Architect Henry Bernard, known for his work on the Maison de la Radio in Paris, designed a revolutionary building for Cergy Préfecture. Gone were the imposing gates and traditional chateau design. Instead, Bernard created an inverted pyramid structure, symbolizing transparency and openness. This was a stark contrast to the often intimidating architecture of traditional government buildings. Around this unique préfecture, the new town bloomed. The Cergy Préfecture became a catalyst for growth, attracting businesses, residents, and a sense of urban energy that continues to define it today.
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.