“A railway line? Right here? ” you ask, peering down the tranquil Villa du Bel Air. You’re right to be surprised! This charming street, tucked away in Paris’s 12th arrondissement, was once bordered by the bustling Petite Ceinture railway. This line, now a haven for walkers and nature lovers, carried goods around and into the heart of Paris. This slice of “village life” within the city owes its name, Villa du Bel Air, to the nearby Avenue de Bel-Air. This Avenue has seen a few name changes itself. It was once the Avenue de Saint-Mandé and even earlier, the Avenue de la Ménagerie. This grand name came from its role as the route to the royal menagerie, once located in Saint-Mandé. When the menagerie moved to Versailles in 1706, the avenue adopted a new name, Bel-Air. The name was inspired by a grand estate in Saint-Mandé owned by Jacques Petitmaire, whose grandfather had been governor of the old menagerie. Perhaps this quiet street, steeped in history, will inspire you to explore more of Paris’s hidden stories.
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.