How about a stroll through a town that’s been evolving since the Stone Age? This is Vitry-sur-Seine. It is a place where royal history meets modern suburban life. Once a rural village at Paris’s doorstep Vitry-sur-Seine has seen royal republican and imperial history. For a long time it was a popular resort.
From the 14th century Vitry-sur-Seine was known for tree nurseries then for lilacs. Gypse and limestone were extracted from its subsoil. This stone was used for construction throughout the region. The 19th century brought big changes to Vitry-sur-Seine. Its location on the Seine near Paris and a new railway line boosted growth. Housing developments sprang up. These housed workers from Paris and Vitry-sur-Seine.
The 20th century meant urban development and advanced industries like electricity and chemicals for Vitry-sur-Seine. In 1925 the first working-class municipality was elected. It brought modern housing and innovative public services. By 1936 the Popular Front found enthusiastic supporters in Vitry-sur-Seine. They were eager for social progress. Though officially dropped in 1897 for Vitry-sur-Seine the nickname Vitry-aux-arbres remains. The planting of diverse tree species never stopped. These plantings contribute to the town’s pleasant living environment.
Vitry-sur-Seine is the largest municipality in Val-de-Marne. It’s also the most populous surpassing Créteil. The Seine forms its eastern border for 3.8 km. Vitry-sur-Seine faced a major challenge during the Seine’s 1910 flood. It devastated 1500 homes and left 8000 residents homeless. Since 1925 Vitry-sur-Seine has had a communist municipality at its head. This makes it part of the Ceinture Rouge or Red Belt.
Did you know that Vitry-sur-Seine has always embraced art? Over 100 contemporary sculptures enhance the town. Many of them are in public schools. The MAC/VAL museum showcases contemporary art in Vitry-sur-Seine. The Galerie municipale Jean-Collet hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
Though Vitry-sur-Seine is outside Paris it’s well-connected. The RER C train line has two stations serving Vitry-sur-Seine. Vitry-sur-Seine and Les Ardoines stations make commuting easy. Vitry-sur-Seine’s story is one of constant change and growth. It is a blend of rural beginnings industrial progress and cultural richness. Vitry-sur-Seine offers a unique experience just southeast of Paris.