Question: What if I told you this unassuming plateau was once a critical defense point for Paris? That’s the Plateau d’Avron. This elevated space in Seine-Saint-Denis is only about ten kilometers east of Paris.
The Plateau d’Avron stands as a testament to nature’s resilience. It also echoes historical battles. Today we explore its transformation from a war zone to a haven for biodiversity.
Once upon a time the Plateau d’Avron was vital for gypsum quarries. From the 18th century to the early 20th century plaster quarries thrived here. The landscape was very different then.
The area’s fate nearly changed drastically in the 1970s. Plans for the A103 highway threatened to bisect it. Residents fiercely opposed the project. The Association de Défense et de Sauvegarde de l’Environnement du Plateau d’Avron played a crucial role. Their efforts successfully led to the project’s abandonment.
In 1999 a 31-hectare park was inaugurated. The Plateau d’Avron became a Natura 2000 site. This designation protects its unique environment. Two specific areas got special protection orders for their biotope. These are the biotope of the Alisiers and the biotope of the Mares. They are within the Coteaux-d’Avron park in Neuilly-Plaisance.
Let’s journey back to the 15th century. A fortified hotel stood here. It was surrounded by walls and a moat. Claude Le Ragois de Bretonvilliers acquired the Avron estate in 1634. He demolished the old hotel. He erected a grand chateau in its place. By 1794 the chateau became farm buildings. Demolition began in 1805. It was completed in 1850.
During the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 the Plateau d’Avron was a key site. It was crucial in the defense of Paris. Numerous official documents attest to this period.
The Parc Communal du Coteau-d’Avron spans 31 hectares. It stretches across Rosny-sous-Bois and Neuilly-Plaisance. A large green space on the Rosny side will extend the park. This will create a 66-hectare park. The park offers panoramic views. It stretches from Marne-la-Vallée to Paris.
The Église du Plateau d’Avron is also known as Notre-Dame d’Avron. Architect Henri Conus designed it. It was built in 1932 using bricks and reinforced concrete. Abbé Ernest Laforge faced difficulties building this church. His tomb is at the back of the church.
The Plateau d’Avron water tower was built in 1938. It still pumps water from the treatment plant in Neuilly-sur-Marne. It supplies water to the Plateau d’Avron and surrounding towns. The 40-meter-high tower is a landmark. It is visible from over 20 kilometers away.
The story of the “Bois des Demoiselles” is interesting. It’s been said that the owner of the woods, Mr. L’Huillier, buried his two daughters there. However research reveals that the name likely comes from its owners the L’Huillier sisters.
The Plateau d’Avron today is a blend of history and nature. In May 2022 fifteen hectares of green spaces were inaugurated. Four hectares are a refuge zone. They preserve biodiversity. Eventually 26 hectares will be dedicated to this cause. Take a moment to appreciate this transformation. From battleground to biodiversity hotspot it showcases resilience.