Thirty kilometers south of Paris lies Égly. A charming commune nestled in the Essonne department. Its history is intertwined with that of nearby Boissy-sous-Saint-Yon. Though their parishes were distinct Égly’s story is one of independent spirit.
Records mention Buchard de Vaugrineuse. He owned land in Égly around 1100. Around 1200 Yolande de Coucy held sway over Égly and Boissy. She generously donated communal land to both villages. A testament to the close-knit nature of these early settlements.
Over the centuries Égly’s lords were also those of Ollainville. The de Marillac family. Madame la duchesse de Lauzun. Then the sieur Boucot. Their influence shaped the landscape. Their decisions impacted the lives of the Aglatiens. The people of Égly.
The arrival of the Paris-Tours railway line in 1865 marked a turning point. The Égly-Ollainville station opened around 1890. This spurred growth. Transforming the once primarily agricultural village. Its population blossomed particularly after World War II. From a few hundred inhabitants in the 1930s to thousands today.
Égly’s growth was not uniform. It is comprised of distinct areas. The old town center clusters around the church and town hall. There are apartment buildings near Arpajon. The Villelouvette hamlet maintains its unique character. The Mare aux Bourguignons district adds to the diverse tapestry.
Today Égly boasts a rich cultural life. The annual Fête des Loups celebration. The Centre de Loisirs et Culture d’Égly (CLCE) offers diverse activities. From theatre and music to dance and visual arts. The Agla’Scènes festival spotlights contemporary music. This highlights Égly’s commitment to the arts. Its vibrancy resonates throughout the commune.
Égly’s history is one of growth. Of agricultural roots blossoming into suburban life. From feudal lords to modern amenities. The commune holds a unique place in the Parisian region. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. A journey through time. A journey through Égly.