Could this charming town be named after a “little mill”? We are in Montlignon, a picturesque village north of Paris. Montlignon boasts a rich history that intertwines with the ebb and flow of French life. The town’s story begins in the Middle Ages, emerging from a landscape transformed by deforestation. The name Montlignon itself is believed to be a derivative of “Moulignon,” meaning “little mill.” This charming moniker hints at the presence of water mills along the Corbon River, shaping the early economy and lifeblood of Montlignon. Over time, this town became closely tied to the influential Montmorency family. The echoes of their legacy are still present. One notable example is the town’s coat of arms, adopted in the 1970s. It’s directly borrowed from the Maleyssie family, who held the Maugarny fiefdom within Montlignon during the 18th century. While Montlignon might be called a “little mill,” its historical impact and heritage are anything but small.
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.