Happy TravellerFontenay-sous-Bois is a quaint commune located in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France. The city is situated just 9.3 km (5.8 mi) from the center of Paris, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the French capital while enjoying a more relaxed pace of life. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Fontenay-sous-Bois has to offer.
Fontenay-sous-Bois has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. The city’s name, which was recorded as Fontanetum during the Middle Ages, means ‘the springs’ in Medieval Latin. The commune was known by several names over the years, including Fontenay-les-Bois and Fontenay-sur-le-Bois, but eventually settled on Fontenay-sous-Bois in the early 19th century.
One of the most interesting landmarks in Fontenay-sous-Bois is the Rosettes fountain, which was lost during World War II. Years later, it was found by chance in a market in the South of France, and the town of Fontenay-sous-Bois recovered it and re-installed it in the place where it can be seen today. The fountain is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Fontenay-sous-Bois is well-connected to the rest of Paris, thanks to its excellent transport links. The city is served by Fontenay-sous-Bois station on Paris RER line A, as well as Val de Fontenay station, which is an interchange station on Paris RER lines A and E. This makes it easy for tourists to explore the city and its surroundings.
Education is a top priority in Fontenay-sous-Bois, and the commune has an impressive array of schools. There are eleven preschools, eleven elementary schools, one junior high school, two CES junior high schools, one senior high school/sixth-form college, and one LEP. Collège Victor Duruy and Lycée Pablo Picasso are the main secondary schools in the area.
Fontenay-sous-Bois is a diverse city with a rich cultural heritage. Over the years, the city has been home to many notable personalities, including bass guitarist Claude Le Péron, footballers Noe Pamarot and Blaise Matuidi, ceramist Georges Jouve, and porn actor Natasha Nice. The city’s former mayor, Jean-François Voguet, ordered the expulsion of people living in a house belonging to the city, and is now part of the few PCF mayors who practice the expulsion of squatters.
In 2015, a street in Brovary, Ukraine was named after Fontenay-sous-Bois in honor of its sister city status. All in all, Fontenay-sous-Bois is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of a city!
