What grand spectacle awaited travelers at Gare de l’Est in 1883? It was the inaugural journey of the Orient Express, a train synonymous with luxury and intrigue that embarked from this very station. Gare de l’Est, one of Paris’s seven grand railway stations, stands as a testament to the city’s rich architectural and historical tapestry. Opened in 1849 as “Embarcadère de Strasbourg,” it was later christened Gare de l’Est after expanding its services to Mulhouse. The station, with its strategic location in eastern Paris, has witnessed significant historical events, particularly during the World Wars when it served as a major mobilization point for French troops. Imagine the tearful goodbyes and the solemn faces of soldiers departing from Gare de l’Est in 1914, a scene immortalized in Albert Herter’s poignant painting, “Le Départ des Poilus.” This artwork, displayed within the station’s grand hall, serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made during the First World War. Today, Gare de l’Est continues to connect Paris to eastern France, Germany, and beyond, its elegant facade and bustling platforms echoing with the footsteps of countless travelers. It stands as a symbol of Paris’s enduring connection to Europe and the wider world, a place where history, art, and travel converge.
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.