Val-de-Marne Heritage Days

Heritage Days in Val-de-Marne: A Department with a Thousand Hidden Treasures

Val-de-Marne is one of the richest departments in the Parisian inner suburbs in terms of architectural, historical, and natural heritage. However, many of its treasures remain unknown to the general public, hidden behind private walls, closed gates, or simply ignored by classic tourist routes. The European Heritage Days, organized every third weekend in September, are the perfect opportunity to discover them.

Exceptional and Diverse Heritage

Val-de-Marne holds heritage gems in very different registers:

Natural and River Heritage

The banks of the Marne and Seine form the backbone of Val-de-Marne's natural heritage. Historic guinguettes, preserved riverbanks, river islands, and green spaces like the Forêt domaniale de la Plaine open their doors or offer unique guided tours.

Architectural Heritage

The department boasts exceptional buildings:

• The Roseraie du Val-de-Marne in L'Haÿ-les-Roses, one of the most beautiful rose gardens in the world
• The Aqueduc Médicis in Arcueil, a masterpiece of 17th-century hydraulic engineering
• The Villa Lumière in Bry-sur-Marne, home of the cinema inventors
• The castles and manors of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, Sucy-en-Brie, and Chennevières
• The historic guinguettes of Joinville-le-Pont and along the Marne riverbanks

Industrial Heritage

Val-de-Marne was one of the cradles of Parisian industry. Converted factories, historic artisan workshops, and river industry sites open their doors to reveal the working-class and industrial history of the department.

Contemporary Heritage

20th-century cultural facilities—MAC de Créteil, cultural centers, architecturally remarkable media libraries—are also featured with tours and activities during these days.

Guided Tours and Cultural Activities

The Heritage Days in Val-de-Marne offer a rich program each year of guided tours, conferences, temporary exhibitions, and educational activities for children and adults. The Department's heritage services and local associations play a central role in organizing and running these events, ensuring a quality experience for the public.