© Actu
Val-de-Marne is a department of the Île-de-France region, located southeast of Paris. Named after the Marne River, which flows through it, it is in fact known as the “department of water”, with 37 towns bordered by a river. The area features a blend of urban and natural spaces.
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Vincennes
Vincennes traces its origins to a small village that developed around a royal hunting lodge established in the forest of Vincennes. The village gained prominence in the 12th century when King Louis VII established a residence there.
The construction of the Château de Vincennes began in the 14th century under King Philip VI and continued under subsequent kings, including Charles V, who transformed it into an impressive fortress. The castle features a large keep, which is the tallest medieval fortified structure in Europe, as well as a moat, a drawbridge, a chapel and royal apartments.
© Val-de-Marne Tourisme & Loisirs
The Château de Vincennes served as a royal residence, a prison, and later as a military stronghold. Notable prisoners included the Marquis de Sade and Henry IV of France.
Located adjacent to the city, the Bois de Vincennes is one of the largest public parks in the region, providing an extensive green space for recreation and relaxation. The park includes the Parc Zoologique de Paris (Paris Zoo), the Parc Floral de Paris (a botanical garden), and the Lac Daumesnil, a popular spot for boating.
Créteil
Créteil is a dynamic suburb serving as the administrative center of the Val-de-Marne, and one of the biggest municipalities in the region. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological finds suggest the presence of early human settlements along the Marne River.
© Ville de Créteil
In the late 19th century, the charm of the Marne river banks attracted artists and writers to Créteil, notably Victor Hugo. The town developed rapidly after World War II, becoming the urban hub it is today. It is home to the University of Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), one of the largest universities in France, with 42 000 students. UPEC is known for its research contributions, particularly in the fields of health, science, and technology.
Sport Facts
Val de Marne has strong ties with Handball. 3 local clubs take part in the top French League: Stella Saint-Maur in the women’s league, US Ivry and US Créteil in the men’s league. The headquarters of the French Handball Federation are also located in Créteil.
Two headliner French athletes at the olympics are originally from Val de Marne.
Estelle Mossely, a professional boxer who won a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, was born in Créteil.
Evan Fournier, a professional basketball player in the NBA, was born in Saint-Maurice and started his career in Charenton, 2 towns in Val-de-Marne.
Estelle Mossely © Le JDD / Evan Fournier © L'Equipe