What secrets does Square Gaston Bertandeau hold? This small, tranquil space tucked away in Paris’s 17th arrondissement offers a quiet escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Square Gaston Bertandeau may not boast the grandeur of Place de la Concorde or the artistic flair of Place du Tertre, but it possesses a unique charm. It’s a place where you can pause, reflect, and perhaps uncover a hidden piece of Parisian history. Square Gaston Bertandeau opened to the public in 1928. It provided a much-needed green space for the neighborhood. For nearly seventy years, it remained open to traffic. However, in 1995, the city made a decision. They closed Square Gaston Bertandeau to vehicles. This transformed it into the pedestrian haven it is today. The square’s namesake remains a bit of a mystery. While the exact reason for naming the square after Gaston Bertandeau is unknown, we do have a clue. Records from 1926 place a man of that name in the 17th arrondissement. This Gaston Bertandeau, an industrialist originally from Vienne, lived with his wife Berthe and their two servants on Avenue de Villiers. Perhaps he was a prominent figure in the area. Maybe his contribution to the community led to the square bearing his name. Square Gaston Bertandeau whispers stories of everyday Parisian life, a quiet counterpoint to the city’s grand historical narratives. It’s a reminder that history isn’t just made by kings and revolutionaries, but also by the individuals who shape their communities.
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.