How did a town give its name to powerful counts? Let me tell you about Dammartin-en-Goële. Right here, in this charming town, the echoes of a powerful lineage whisper through the ages. Dammartin-en-Goële wasn’t always just a town. It was the heart of a county, ruled by the Counts of Dammartin, figures who played significant roles in French history. Their story starts in 1021 with Manassès, a vassal of Eudes II of Blois. Manassès became the first Count of Dammartin, marking the start of a legacy that entangled with royalty, intrigue, and conflict. Dammartin-en-Goële itself was a strategic location. It commanded important routes between Paris and cities like Soissons and Laon. As you can imagine, this made it a prime target during various conflicts. The town has seen sieges, battles, and the rise and fall of its powerful counts. One of the most illustrious figures was Antoine de Chabannes, a companion of Joan of Arc. He became Count of Dammartin through his marriage to Marguerite de Nanteuil. Imagine the stories those walls could tell, of battles fought, of alliances forged, and of the drama that unfolded within the castle walls. Sadly, the castle itself is no more. Richelieu ordered its dismantling, leaving only its memory to haunt the town. But the spirit of Dammartin-en-Goële remains strong. The town boasts two remarkable structures that offer glimpses into its past: the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame and the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. The collegiate church, a beautiful example of late Gothic architecture, was built by Antoine de Chabannes. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, dating back to the 11th century, boasts a portal and chapel that were also added by Chabannes. So, as you explore Dammartin-en-Goële, remember that you’re walking through history. From the echoes of powerful counts to the beautiful remnants of its past, this town offers a captivating journey through time.
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.