Picture the elegant Château de Grand’Maisons. Its history whispers of the Francini family. They created the stunning water features at Versailles. This is Villepreux a commune in the Yvelines department. It lies about 12 km west of the opulent Versailles. We stand near the very spot where this magnificent château stands proudly.
Villepreux isn’t just a pretty face though. Its history stretches back centuries. A charter from Charles the Bald in 856 mentions Villepreux. This doesn’t mean nobody lived here before. A Merovingian cemetery was discovered. This proves people lived in Villepreux much earlier. For centuries after Villepreux had many lords. The powerful Montmorency family is just one example. These noble families played a part in shaping both France and Villepreux.
The town’s character has changed. Once it was a rural village centered on its château. Now Villepreux has expanded. New neighborhoods like La Haie Bergerie have emerged. This quarter shows innovative architecture. It was created by Jacques Riboud and his architect Roland Predieri. Predieri later became the mayor of Villepreux. Even further west lies Trianon. It is a quieter more modern area with beautiful buildings.
The aqueduc de l’Avre runs through Villepreux’s southeastern part. It is a reminder of the area’s history and infrastructure. It’s a fascinating example of engineering. In addition to the château Villepreux has other attractions. There’s the Saint-Germain Church. It dates back to the 12th century. The Château de Gondi has a unique past. Its gate and Mansart pavilion remain standing. It serves as a historical landmark today. The town also has the Saint-Vincent house. It’s a former corbelled and half-timbered house. It used to be a home for the Daughters of Charity.
Today Villepreux boasts several schools. There are preschools like Le Clos Crozatier and Le Prieur. There are also elementary schools such as Jacques Gillet and Jean de la Fontaine. Villepreux also has a junior high school and a high school. This shows the importance of education in the community.
The town’s center has shifted from its old village to newer areas. This movement reflects the town’s growth and change. Villepreux has a rich history. It also has a vibrant present. This is what makes Villepreux so special.