How about a walk along a hidden aqueduct. Let me introduce you to the Domaine de la Dhuys. This isn’t just any ordinary stroll. It’s a journey above an aqueduct that quenches the thirst of Marne-la-Vallée and Disneyland Paris.
The Promenade de la Dhuis stretches almost four kilometers. It cuts through diverse landscapes and remarkable forests in the Paris region. The Aqueduct de la Dhuis spans 131 km. It weaves its way from Paris through various towns. These include Le Raincy and Claye-Souilly.
On the east side the promenade reveals views. These views are reminiscent of Normandy meadows. The path extends over twenty kilometers into Seine-et-Marne. Its hillside position gives amazing views of the surrounding area.
The Promenade régionale de la Dhuis offers multiple entry points. You can arrive by car. Park near the promenade in Dampmart. The Georges Roby gymnasium is nearby. Alternatively find parking in Thorigny-sur-Marne. Look for rue de Claye. Coubron also has parking near Maison de la Nature or the town hall. For public transport use the RER E Le Raincy station. You can also use the Transilien ligne P from Lagny to Thorigny-sur-Marne.
Let’s talk about a related site the Jardin de sculptures de la Dhuys in Chessy. This sculpture park features the work of Jacques Servières. The garden is located north of Chessy in Seine-et-Marne. It sits on the south bank of the Marne. It contains around forty statues. These are divided into two groups. The first group is displayed on a lawn. The second group lines a 200-meter path. This path runs between the Marne and a field. The site is open to the public.
These monumental statues some reaching 4 meters high. They are sculpted from white limestone blocks. The statues depict human figures and animals. These are both mythical and real. Each sculpture bears the artist’s initials and creation date.
The sculpture garden has an interesting history. The Aqueduct de la Dhuis occupied this site from the 1860s. It transported water to the Ménilmontant reservoir in Paris. The aqueduct crossed the Marne via a bridge between Chessy and Dampmart. The bridge was bombed in 1939 during World War II. The stones were abandoned.
In 1987 Jacques Servières moved to the site. He decided to reuse the bridge stones to create sculptures. The municipality of Chessy assists with site maintenance. The site of Angkor inspired his early work. He creates about two statues per year.
So as we conclude our walk, remember the Domaine de la Dhuys. It is more than just an aqueduct or a sculpture garden. It’s a blend of engineering, art, and history. It offers a unique perspective on Parisian life and creativity.