Did you know that Monnetier-Mornex near Geneva boasts a history stretching back to the Allobroges a Celtic tribe? This charming commune nestled in southeastern France is more than just a picturesque setting. Its story is woven into the fabric of centuries.
Monnetier-Mornex is actually three villages Monnetier Mornex and Esserts-Salève. Each village has its own unique character. Monnetier sits between the Grand Salève and Petit Salève mountains. Its high altitude and abundant sunshine made it a popular health resort in the late 19th century. Several hotels thrived here.
Mornex clings to the slopes of Mont Gosse. It enjoys stunning views of the Arve valley and the majestic Mont Blanc range. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Arve River and its tributary the Viaison played a significant role in its historical development. Esserts-Salève sits on the eastern slopes of Salève. It’s a picturesque spot characterized by a plateau.
A fascinating piece of Monnetier-Mornex’s past is the Château de l’Ermitage. Initially a fortress it was destroyed by troops from Geneva in 1589. The ruins were used as a quarry. In 1855 a mansion hotel-pension was built on its site. This mansion remained in the same family until the 1990s. It has since been renovated into a luxurious residence.
Monnetier-Mornex also has a rich cultural heritage. The Church of Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens in Monnetier dates from the 12th century. The Saint George Chapel in Mornex also dates from the 12th century though it never achieved parish status. The Saint-André Church in Esserts-Salève was built in 1584.
The area has been inhabited since Neolithic Bronze Age and Roman times. The Celts mined iron at the foot of Salève. For centuries Monnetier-Mornex was under the control of the Bishops of Geneva. Later the Counts of Geneva ruled the area. In 1659 it passed to Savoy sharing its destiny from then on.
A unique feature of Monnetier-Mornex is the Pas de l’Échelle trail. This historical path is at least as old as the 14th century. It climbs the Salève mountain from 430 meters to 1244 meters. Parts of the trail have steps carved directly into the rock. Farmers once used this trail to take their products to markets in Geneva. Famous writers and scientists have walked this path including Alphonse Lamartine.
Monnetier-Mornex has attracted many notable figures. Richard Wagner stayed here in 1856 possibly composing parts of his opera Die Walküre. John Ruskin the English writer was also a visitor. The impressionist painter Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot painted a view of Mornex. Even the famous Henri-Albert Gosse the pharmacist who helped create the first artificially carbonated water lived in Mornex. He gave his name to Mont Gosse.
Today Monnetier-Mornex offers a blend of history nature and recreation. Its past is alive in its architecture its trails and the stories of those who have lived there. Explore its villages enjoy its views and discover for yourself the captivating charm of Monnetier-Mornex.