Have you heard of Favières? It is a charming commune in the Seine-et-Marne department, nestled in the heart of the Île-de-France region. Favières holds a rich history, woven into its very fabric, spanning centuries. The name, derived from the Latin “fabareolae,” meaning “field where beans are cultivated,” hints at its agricultural past, and you can still feel a connection to those farmlands as you walk through the village.
The commune was founded by the Counts of Champagne in the 12th century. It boasted an abbey, which was built in the hamlet of Hermières and dedicated to Saint Nicolas. Unfortunately, this abbey, like many others in its time, fell into ruin. During the French Revolution, Favières was briefly renamed Faviers. Many farmlands at this time were acquired by the Rothschild family and they held a large portion of them until World War Two. If you are interested, you can visit the Saint-Martin church, dating from the 12th century, a true icon of the past. But Favières is not just a place of the past.
It is a living commune rich in history, nature, and community. With around 1,300 inhabitants today, it offers a sense of peace and connection to the simpler things. It is also a great place to explore, with its charming streets, quaint houses, and lush countryside.