Did you know that a simple roundabout could tell a tale of international friendship? That’s exactly what the Rond-point de Valpaços does. It stands in La Garenne-Colombes. This town is a commune in the northwestern suburbs of Paris.
The Rond-point de Valpaços wasn’t always called that. It was once known as the Carrefour de l’Aigle. It was also called Carrefour de Sartoris. Today, it’s a meeting point for several streets. These include Rue Sartoris, Rue de l’Aigle, Rue de Plaisance, and Rue d’Estienne-d’Orves.
So, why the name change to Rond-point de Valpaços? The answer lies in a bond of friendship. La Garenne-Colombes twinned with the city of Valpaços in Portugal. This happened on June 5, 2004. To honor this connection, the roundabout was renamed. It became a symbol of the two cities’ relationship.
La Garenne-Colombes itself has an interesting past. It was once part of Colombes. Before 1910, it was called La Garenne de Colombes. This translates to “the warren of doves.” The name “warren” comes from its history as a hunting ground during the French monarchy.
Today, La Garenne-Colombes is often called “La Garenne.” Some even nickname it “petit Neuilly.” It’s surrounded by Colombes, Bois-Colombes, Courbevoie, and Nanterre. The city is quite small compared to its neighbors. It’s about the size of the first arrondissement of Paris.
Transportation is convenient here. Two train stations serve the area. They are La Garenne-Colombes and Les Vallées. These stations connect to Paris Saint-Lazare in just 10 minutes. The train has been running here since 1837.
The Rond-point de Valpaços may seem like just a traffic circle. But it represents a connection to Valpaços. It is a reminder of the friendship between two communities. As you stand here, consider the global links that even a small town can forge. This roundabout is more than just a place where roads meet. It’s a symbol of unity and partnership. So next time you pass by the Rond-point de Valpaços, remember the story it tells. Remember the bond between La Garenne-Colombes and Valpaços.