Happy TravellerWelcome to Gif-sur-Yvette, a stunning commune located in south-western Ile de France, just 22.9 km (14.2 mi) from the heart of Paris. This charming town is named after the river Yvette that flows through it, and is surrounded by beautiful green spaces and woods, covering 4.07 km2 (1.57 sq mi) of its 11.60 km2 (4.48 sq mi) area. Gif-sur-Yvette is composed of several sections including The Rougemonts, The Mérantaise, The Mairie, The Féverie, Coupières, Damiette, Courcelle, lAbbaye, and les Coudraies. Each section has a unique character and a rich history of its own. Here is a glimpse of what you can expect from your trip to Gif-sur-Yvette:
History:
Gif-sur-Yvette has a rich history dating back to Neolithic times. Agriculture was developed during the Roman era, and between the 12th and the 18th century, a significant Benedictine abbey was built in Gif. Gif remained an agricultural town until the 19th century when it was linked to the path of the Sceaux Train, which later became the south branch of the RER B. After the Second World War, Gif-sur-Yvette acquired an international scientific reputation with the construction of the CNRS and the CEA. The town was extended in 1975 with the creation of the Chevry section.
Main Sights:
Gif-sur-Yvette has several notable landmarks and attractions. The Saint-Rémi Church is a beautiful structure of Romanesque and Gothic architecture constructed in the 12th century. Some ruins remain of a Benedictine abbey which was built in the 12th century and became a national property in 1789. The town is also home to several research organizations such as the CNRS, the CEA, and the Institute of Plant Biotechnology. SOLEIL Synchrotron and the National Police Academy are also located here.
Population and Famous Residents:
The inhabitants of Gif-sur-Yvette are known as Giffois. The town has been home to many notable people including Juliette Adam, founder of the Nouvelle Revue, and Fernand Léger, the famous artist who died in his house here. Richard Bohringer, the actor, currently lives in the town. His daughter, actress Romane Bohringer, pursued her university studies here. The actress and supermodel Noémie Lenoir is from Gif-sur-Yvette, in the lAbbaye section. Well-known British chemists who have been working at the Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles at Gif include Derek Barton, Hugh Felkin, Bob Crabtree, and Steve Davies.
Transportation:
Gif-sur-Yvette is served by two stations on Paris RER line B: Gif-sur-Yvette and Courcelle-sur-Yvette. Trains generally arrive at 15-minute intervals and offer quick access to the heart of Paris.
Twin Towns:
Gif-sur-Yvette has been twinned with Olpe, Germany since 2001.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or science, Gif-sur-Yvette has something for everyone. With breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering local cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage, this hidden gem is not to be missed. Plan your trip today and discover all that Gif-sur-Yvette has to offer!
