Essonne

Discover EssonneA department rich in heritage and nature, perfect for those with a passion for history, culture, sport or simply relaxation. Join us as we explore the charm, diversity and energy of this region, located at the gateway to France. Parisin region Ile de Francefor an unforgettable journey through time.

A journey through time: Essonne's historical heritage

Far from being limited to its creation in 1968, Essonne has a rich and varied history, stretching from prehistory to the present day. The department has witnessed many historic events, and is well worth exploring its often little-known past.

Let's embark on a journey to discover the remains and stories that have shaped Essonne.

From prehistory to the present day: a wealth of little-known history

Occupied for around 13,000 years, Essonne's first traces of habitation can be seen at the Étiolles archaeological site, which dates back to the Magdalenian era. In Gallo-Roman times, the region was crossed by a Roman road linking Paris to Orléans, whose milestones still stand at Wissous and Évry-Courcouronnes. The Middle Ages were marked by important battles, including that of Montlhéry in 1465. The Renaissance saw such figures as François I at the Château de Dourdan and Nostradamus at Saint-Germain-lès-Arpajon. Under the Ancien Régime, Essonne became a favorite haunt of the nobility and financiers, with the construction of sumptuous châteaux such as Chamarande. The French Revolution saw the birth in Étampes of the country's first agrarian republic.

In the 19th century, Essonne underwent significant industrial development, while attracting famous painters who immortalized its landscapes. The 20th century was marked by two world wars, leaving indelible traces in the local heritage. Essonne is also renowned for its scientific advances, notably the atomic research center at Bruyères-le-Châtel. Today, the department combines dynamism and diversity, rooted in a rich traditional and modern heritage.

Castles and monuments: guardians of Essonne history

Essonne is home to an impressive variety of castles, manor houses and historic residences. The 13th-century Château de Dourdan boasts a keep, ramparts and preserved moats. The château de Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard, with its brick and stone facade, bears witness to the splendor of the Renaissance. Château de Courson, a perfect example of 18th-century architecture, reflects the classical elegance of the period. Some of these sites are open to the public, offering a living insight into the history and culture of Essonne.

Focus on the Domaine départemental de Chamarande

The Domaine départemental de Chamarande is a jewel of the Essonne region, combining historic heritage with contemporary art. Built in 1654, the château boasts an elegant brick and stone facade, characteristic of the Louis XIII style. Its park, classified as a "remarkable garden", was designed by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century and enriched over the centuries by various decorative additions. Since 2001, the estate has been transformed into a vibrant center for contemporary art, hosting exhibitions and cultural events. Open all year round, it offers a multitude of activities, making it a must for discovering the Essonne region in all its diversity.

The natural diversity of Essonne: a green treasure on the outskirts of Paris

Essonne will amaze you with its natural wealth and diversity. Whether you're a lover of forests, rivers or rural landscapes, you'll find plenty to recharge your batteries and marvel at.

Let's discover this verdant, aquatic and lively region on the outskirts of Paris.

Forests, parks and gardens: Essonne's green lungs

With over 40,000 hectares of forest, representing almost 30% of its surface area, Essonne offers vast areas for relaxation, leisure and discovery, while protecting biodiversity. Discover the Sénart forest, populated by deer, wild boar and squirrels, the Fontainebleau forest, with its rocky landscapes, moors and ponds, or the Rambouillet forest, with its wildlife park and national nature reserve.

The department is also home to numerous parks and gardens, from the historic Parc de Courances, classified as a "remarkable garden", to the contemporary Parc des Coteaux de l'Orge, covering 13 communes and offering a wide range of sporting and cultural activities. Whether you're looking for tranquility, beauty or conviviality, Essonne has a park or garden to offer you.

Rivers and bodies of water: the Essonne hydrographic network

Named after the Essonne River, which shapes its landscape and heritage, this département is rich in history, economy and culture. Its banks are home to ancient mills, such as Claude François's in Dannemois, and châteaux that attract nobles and artists, such as Courances and Chamarande. The Essonne is criss-crossed by other rivers such as the Orge, Juine, Yvette and Rémarde, forming a dense and varied network. These rivers, rich in biodiversity, are ideal for fishing, canoeing and hiking.

The département also boasts a number of ponds, lakes and leisure facilities for swimming, sunbathing, walking and entertaining. The Lac de Viry-Châtillon, famous for its sailing and rowing competitions, the Lac de Breuillet, with its water sports activities, and the Lac de Saint-Chéron, equipped with a fitness trail and mini-golf, will satisfy all freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts.

The Juine valley: a bucolic getaway

The Juine valley, stretching for some forty kilometers between Étampes and Lardy, is one of the most beautiful valleys in Essonne. Its charm and poetry have inspired writers and painters such as Victor Hugo and Jean-François Millet. Rich in heritage, it is home to remarkable monuments such as Morigny-Champigny Abbey, Château du Saussay and the Musée Intercommunal d'Étampes. It's also a great place for hiking and cycling, offering unspoilt landscapes, rich biodiversity and signposted trails to discover its villages, churches, washhouses and mills. An ideal destination for a bucolic getaway, just a stone's throw from Paris.

Between tradition and modernity: Essonne, a lively department

Essonne, with its strong identity and rich heritage, is constantly reinventing itself, shining in crafts, innovation and gastronomy thanks to its creativity, diversity and the quality of its offerings.

Let's explore the assets and treasures of this dynamic region.

Craftsmanship and know-how: keeping traditions alive

With a rich pool of art artisans, Essonne celebrates age-old traditions while embracing innovation. Artisans manipulate materials such as wood, glass, metal, paper, leather and textiles to create unique and refined works. Basketry, stained glass and cutlery are just a few examples where art meets functionality, producing baskets, colored glass artworks and elegant knives.

These artisans, passionate about their craft, invite the public to discover their art in their workshops and share their know-how at trade fairs and events.

Innovation and research: Essonne, a land of science

Essonne is at the frontier of innovation and research, and is a leader in sectors such as biotechnology, digital technology, energy and space. Thanks to a rich ecosystem of universities, grandes écoles, laboratories and clusters, the département promotes science and technology. Genopole, the Saclay plateau and the Limeil-Brévannes space center are flagship examples of this dynamic, contributing to economic development and addressing societal challenges.

Essonne gastronomy: a culinary heritage to be rediscovered

Essonne's rich and diverse culinary heritage reflects its history, geography and culture. Watercress, Gâtinais saffron and Milly-la-Forêt peppermint are all local specialties appreciated for their unique flavors. What's more, Essonne abounds in local producers offering a variety of fresh, seasonal produce, available for direct sale or at markets. The department's restaurants, both starred and lesser-known, celebrate this culinary richness with dishes featuring local produce.

Conclusion

Essonne proves to be a rich and varied territoryThis region offers an impressive array of historical, natural, cultural and gastronomic attractions. This department opens its arms to you, inviting you to explore its many facets and hidden treasures.

Between its splendor, its creative effervescence and its dynamism, Essonne promises to captivate you. So don't delay in discovering this jewel on the outskirts of Paris. An enriching experience awaits you, without a doubt.

FAQ

What's the most beautiful city in the 91?

The question of the most beautiful town in 91 is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, Essonne towns can be evaluated on the basis of criteria such as heritage, nature, quality of life and attractiveness.

After a study, Dourdan and Courances stand out:

• Dourdan Dourdan: Known for its medieval atmosphere, Dourdan is one of the most attractive towns in Essonne. Its castle, market hall, church and Moustier gate, not to mention the Dourdan forest and Orge river, make it a destination of choice.
• Courances : This picturesque village is famous for its Louis XIII château and exceptional gardens. With its ponds, springs, mill and watercress garden, it offers a bucolic setting, complemented by stone houses and a 12th-century church.

What city is in 91?

The Essonne département, identified by the number 91 and located in the Île-de-France region, comprises 196 communes. Évry-Courcouronnes is the prefecture, while Étampes and Palaiseau are the sub-prefectures.

Where's the best place to live in the 91?

Determining the best place to live in the 91 varies according to individual criteria. However, indicators such as quality of life, economic dynamism, safety, environment, services and transportation can help you make a choice.

Here are just a few of the towns and villages that stand out in Essonne:

• Orsay Paris-Saclay: Located in the Chevreuse valley, Paris-Saclay offers a green setting and a rich cultural heritage. It is home to the Paris-Saclay University campus, a center of scientific and technological excellence.
• Palaiseau Paris-Saclay: Part of the Paris-Saclay conurbation, this town attracts students, researchers and businesses thanks to its many facilities and excellent transport links.
• Yerres On the edge of the Val-de-Marne, Yerres enjoys a pleasant living environment with the Yerres River and numerous green spaces, as well as a notable historical and artistic heritage.
• Juvisy-sur-Orge The department's most populous city, it is a major transportation hub and boasts a dynamic downtown area.
• Soisy-sur-Seine The Sénart forest and the Port aux Cerises nature park on the banks of the Seine.
• Épinay-sur-Orge The village is close to Orly airport and accessible by RER C, yet retains its rural charm.
• Gif-sur-Yvette The Haute Vallée de Chevreuse natural park is a place of research and innovation, as well as offering a rich cultural life.
• Verrières-le-Buisson : A privileged setting with green spaces and a remarkable architectural heritage.

What is the former name of Essonne?

Essonne was formerly known as Seine-et-Oise, a department that was dissolved on July 10, 1964 to create Essonne and other departments in the Île-de-France region.