“The air smells of timber and grain,” whispered a stevedore, pausing his work at Port d’Ivry-sur-Seine. Port d’Ivry-sur-Seine has been a bustling hub of activity since its inauguration in 1899. This port, the oldest managed by Ports de Paris, fueled Ivry-sur-Seine’s industrial growth in the early 20th century. Imagine barges laden with foodstuffs, timber, and fuel navigating the Seine, their arrival and departure a symphony of industry. The port’s strategic location, a stone’s throw from Paris, attracted a diverse array of businesses. Brasseries, distilleries, and vast warehouses sprang up, drawn by the proximity to the capital’s markets. However, the tide turned in the 1960s and 1970s. Deindustrialization took hold and river transport declined, impacting Port d’Ivry-sur-Seine. Yet, like a phoenix from the ashes, river transport experienced a resurgence in the 2000s, lauded for its lower environmental impact. This revival breathed new life into Port d’Ivry-sur-Seine. Today, it stands as a testament to Ivry-sur-Seine’s industrial past and its promising future, a blend of industry and recreation.
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.