The Mairie du Bourget, a grand building with an air of quiet authority, stands before you. It has witnessed the changing face of the town for generations. Look at the elegant brickwork and the Art Deco design that adorns it. This is a reminder of the town’s industrial heyday. You can almost hear the echoes of the workers who once built the airplanes that graced Le Bourget Airport, a symbol of the town’s rich history.
Built in 1930, the mairie replaced a previously existing one, that sat on the Route de Flandre. The newer building was designed to accommodate the growing population. And then it had to be rebuilt after World War II, when it was badly damaged during the bombing raid known as Operation Starkey.
The interior of the Mairie du Bourget holds relics of the past. You can find paintings depicting the Franco-Prussian war, scenes of bravery and sacrifice. The paintings tell a story of a town caught in the heart of conflict. While the airport may be the most celebrated symbol of the Bourget, the mairie reminds us of the courage and resilience of ordinary people.
The windows of the mairie open onto a vibrant street, the Avenue de la Division-Leclerc. The energy of the town pulsates through its streets. But in this quiet space, the walls of the mairie preserve the stories of a town that once soared with aeroplanes and has always stood its ground. It is a monument to the heart of the Bourget, a place where history and community come together.
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.