Could this unassuming town, Paray-Vieille-Poste, really be home to part of a bustling international airport? Paray-Vieille-Poste may seem like an ordinary town at first glance. However, it holds a fascinating secret. Part of the renowned Paris-Orly Airport actually resides within its boundaries. This fact surprises many visitors.
The town itself has a rich history. It originated from the quaint village of Paray. This village only had about 60 inhabitants in the late 18th century. The name “Paray-Vieille-Poste” first appeared much later, in 1923. By 1928, the population had exploded to 3,000 residents. The town underwent significant development in the early 20th century. This was largely due to the implementation of the Sarraut law in 1928. This law mandated the rapid establishment of essential infrastructure. Paray-Vieille-Poste saw the installation of electricity and water connections. By 1933, the transformation was complete, equipping the town with modern amenities.
The town’s coat of arms tells a story of its past. The bugles symbolize the postilions who once passed through. The arms of the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Maréchal de Vaux reflect the town’s historical connections. Today, Paray-Vieille-Poste is a thriving community. It boasts a population of over 7,000 residents. The legacy of its past is still visible today in its charming streets and historical landmarks. The town also played a role in World War II. It endured bombings aimed at Orly Airport, a testament to its strategic location.