Ever wondered where Parisians go to escape the city’s frenzy? Welcome to Le Thillay. This charming commune in the Val-d’Oise department offers a tranquil retreat. Le Thillay is located in the Île-de-France region in northern France.
Le Thillay boasts a history stretching back centuries. Archaeological digs have unearthed evidence of a Gaulish village. It thrived from the 1st to 6th centuries. This village featured an extensive bathing area. It eventually gave way to settlements along the Croult Valley. This is where the present-day village of Le Thillay stands.
For many years, Le Thillay remained deeply rural. Unlike neighboring towns, it lacked a railway station. Economic development began after France’s liberation. Gradually, agricultural land was converted into residential areas. These areas include the Grands Champs, l’Avenir, and le Château.
In the 1960s, a condominium complex increased the local population significantly. Later, in the 1980s and 1990s, the construction of a new development zone further boosted population growth. Today, Le Thillay is a small town. It is home to over 4,500 residents.
Many residents commute to work in the nearby airport zone. Others travel to different parts of the region. Despite its proximity to Charles de Gaulle Airport, Le Thillay retains its charm.
Le Thillay has a rich industrial past. In the 1960s, it housed several major industrial companies. These included a L’Oréal factory. There was also a paint factory. Today, over 2,200 jobs are located in Le Thillay. The former Villemer factory is now a diverse business park.
The commune has one listed historical monument. It is the Saint-Denis Church on Rue de Paris. The parish dates back to 1273. The church was rebuilt between 1530 and 1580. Its architecture features ribbed vaults and an irregular layout. Notice the Renaissance details. They are evident in the bell tower and the pendant keystones.
Le Thillay is known for its picturesque lake. Le Thillay has been a popular spot for anglers for a long time. The Croult River feeds the lake. It is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet. Fishing enthusiasts regularly restock the lake with freshwater species.
The Moulin à Drap also stands on the Croult. It marks the southern boundary of Le Thillay. Once a watermill, it became a major flour mill.
Le Thillay has been home to several notable figures. Charles Girard du Thillay was Marquis du Thillay. He was also president of the Paris Chamber of Accounts. The singer Magalie Vaé lived in Le Thillay during her teenage years. Marshal Jean-Baptiste Bessières owned a château here. The château is now gone. His wife and son are buried in the local cemetery.
Le Thillay offers a blend of history, nature, and small-town charm. As our tour ends, consider the layers of history beneath your feet. From Gaulish settlements to modern-day life, Le Thillay has evolved.