What whispers do you think these stones hold? This is Vaujours a commune in the northeastern suburbs of Paris. Vaujours is located 18.2 km from the center of Paris. It is in the département of Seine-Saint-Denis.
Let’s uncover some of Vaujours’ past. Documents mention this commune before the 9th century. In the twelfth century archives, it is named Vallis Jost and Vaujoi. This comes from the Latin for valley of joy.
Around 1100, Étienne de Senlis owned this land. He was the archdeacon of Notre Dame de Paris. He gave it to the Abbey of St Victor in Paris. Henry VI of England had a hunting lodge near Montauban Hill. Today, a housing development bearing his name stands there.
The Saint Nicholas Church was constructed in the late 18th century. It houses treasures of sacred art. An 18th-century painting depicts the baptism of Christ. A tabernacle dates from the seventeenth century. The Pailleux family largely controlled Vaujours until the 20th century. You can see the funerary flagstones of this family in the church. They ruled the village from 1760 to 1840.
In 1844, the château de Vaujours became the Fénelon Horticultural School. It was named after François Fénelon a celebrated French writer. This conversion restored some prestige to the mansion. The mansion features wrought ironwork, sculptures, and paintings. These elements are registered historic monuments. Beside the building stands a tithe barn from the 17th or 18th century.
Vaujours played a strategic role during the First Battle of the Marne in September 1914. This was a crucial battle of World War I.
Vaujours does not have its own train station. However, the Vert-Galant station is nearby. It is located in Villepinte. This station is on Paris RER line B and is 1.4 km from the centre of Vaujours.
The arms of Vaujours are quite symbolic. Azure, a bend embattled-counterembattled Or. On a chief azure, there is an escarbuncle fleury Or.
In Vaujours, concrete gives way to greenery. The town has retained the charm of a village. Its inhabitants pride themselves on their quality of life. Buy milk at a farm, go rock climbing, or walk in the woods. Cycle along the canal or cross through wheat fields. Vaujours offers a rare quality of life.
Located half an hour from Paris, Vaujours has a traditional village feel. You’ll find a historical center around its church. There is also its magnificent eighteenth-century castle. The castle is now a private school. A residential area and shopping district spread along the former national 3 road. This village appearance coexists with economic dynamism. Dozens of companies operate here including some leading industries.
The forest park of Sevran offers a relaxing space. The charm of the Ourcq canal is undeniable. Nearby, the countryside in Seine et Marne provides walking trails. Discover the agricultural area on the hills of Aulnoye and in Vaujours.
Consider visiting the Placoplatre factory. It is one of the world’s largest gypsum plants near the gypsum quarries.
Today, Vaujours stands as a testament to its rich past. It is a blend of historical significance and modern life. From its early mentions to its role in significant historical events. Vaujours continues to evolve while preserving its unique identity. As we conclude our visit, remember the valley of joy. It is a place where history and nature intertwine.