Whose ghost, legend claims, wanders the streets of Malakoff? The ghost of Henri Rousseau, better known as “Le Douanier,” the customs officer. Malakoff, a charming suburb southwest of Paris, draws its name from a rather unusual source: a tavern. This tavern, “À la Tour de Malakoff,” was named in honor of the Battle of Malakoff during the Crimean War. The victory at Malakoff was a pivotal moment for the French. The name resonated so strongly that when this area detached from Vanves in 1883, it adopted the name Malakoff. But back to Rousseau. This self-taught artist worked as a toll collector at the Porte de Vanves, right here in Malakoff. He painted in his spare time, his naive style becoming celebrated after his death. It’s said you might spot him strolling near the old toll gate, paintbrush in hand, forever entwined with the spirit of Malakoff.
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.