Have you ever heard of the Rue de la Reine Henriette in Colombes? This quiet street in the western suburbs of Paris has a rather intriguing story. It’s named in honor of Henriette-Marie de France, the queen consort of England. This queen played a vital role in shaping Europe’s political landscape, and her life was a thrilling rollercoaster of love, loss, and war. In 1657, Henrietta-Marie sought refuge in Colombes after being driven from England by a civil war that cost her husband Charles I his head. She lived in a grand chateau that once stood where the street stands today. The chateau was surrounded by a beautiful three-hectare garden. The chateau was later demolished in 1846, but you can still step into the past as you stroll down Rue de la Reine Henriette. You can almost imagine Henriette-Marie walking through the bustling streets of this quaint town, surrounded by her loyal followers, seeking solace after political turmoil and the tragic loss of her beloved spouse. Even though the chateau is long gone, the street remains a tangible reminder of her fascinating story and her enduring legacy.
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.