Complete Travel Guide to Montreuil, France

Montreuil Montreuil, also known unofficially as Montreuil-sous-Bois, is a commune in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France. It is located 6.6 km (4.1 mi) from the centre of Paris, in the Seine-Saint-Denis department and in the Métropole du Grand Paris. With a population of 111,367 as of 2020, Montreuil is the third most populous suburb of Paris after Boulogne-Billancourt and Saint-Denis. It is located north of Paris's Bois de Vincennes, on the border with Val-de-Marne. Positioned at coordinates 50.46374°N, 1.76348°E, Montreuil occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Montreuil place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 52.0 meters above sea level, Montreuil benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Montreuil creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 110758 residents, Montreuil maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Montreuil represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Montreuil reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout France, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Hauts-de-France province, Montreuil contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines France's regional character. The role of Montreuil in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Montreuil discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of France while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Montreuil

History A small monastery was recorded on the site during the Merovingian period on a hill that overlooked Vincennes, which is most likely where Montreuil gained its name Under the reigns of Louis XIV and Louis XVI the "Peach Walls" which provided the royal court with the fruits were located in Montreuil.

It was also later home to the Lumière brothers and George Méliès whose workshops were located in lower Montreuil On 1 January 1860, the city of Paris was enlarged by annexing neighboring communes On that occasion, the commune of Charonne was disbanded and divided between the city of Paris, Montreuil, and Bagnolet.

Montreuil received a small part of the territory of Charonne Today Montreuil is divided into several districts: * Le bas Montreuil (which joins together the old workshops (bordering on Saint-Mandé), the _marché aux puces_ (bordering on Paris, carries of Montreuil), * The Mairie (the malls, la croix de Chavaux, the Hôtel de Ville (town hall), and the Church of St Peter and St Paul), * La Noue (parc des Guilands, city of du Val, Robespierre, bordering on Bagnolet), * Le Bel Air (Jean Moulin housing estate, park des Beaumonts, city of Bel Air, city of Grand Pechers), * La Boissière (all the north of Montreuil including parc Montreau and parc des Beaumonts, bordering on Romainville, Noisy-le-Sec, Rosny-sous-Bois and Fontenay-sous-Bois).

#Main artistic heritage * Decorations (ceramics and frescoes) in the state school "Voltaire" by Maurice Boitel (1954) * Many definitive street art murals on several buildings of the city, like the tribute to Frantz Fanon, French psychiatrist and philosopher from the French overseas department of Martinique (boulevard Théophile Sueur).

* "Au temps d'harmonie", pointillist painting from famous 19th century French painter Paul Signac, in the town hall * Polyptych (enamels), in the cathedral entrance of the Georges Méliès student residence by Guillaume Bottazzi #Heraldry Arms of Montreuil The herald arms of Montreuil is coloured as follows: _Azur-coloured base, one gold-coloured chevron between three golden peach branches, and in center top a golden Fleur-de-lis.

_ or _Azure, a Chevron Or between three Peach branches Or fructed and in centre chief point a Fleur-de-lis Or "Église saint Pierre-saint Paul" com_ (in French) Retrieved November 16, 2019 "Visions du bonheur | Histoire et analyse d'images et oeuvres" "A polyptych by Guillaume Bottazzi illuminates the cathedral entrance of the Georges Méliès student residence in Montreuil".

"Le polyptyque de Guillaume Bottazzi illumine la nouvelle résidence étudiante Georges Méliès à Montreuil – in interiors".

The historical trajectory of Montreuil demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Montreuil reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Montreuil remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography #Climate Montreuil has an oceanic climate (Köppen climate classification _Cfb_). The average annual temperature in Montreuil is 12. The average annual rainfall is 669. 37 in) with May as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in July, at around 20. 4 °F), and lowest in January, at around 4. The highest temperature ever recorded in Montreuil was 40. 0 °F) on 25 July 2019 and 12 August 2003; the coldest temperature ever recorded was −17. 1 °F) on 17 January 1985. Climate data for Montreuil (1981−2010 normals, extremes 1981−present) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 16. 0) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7. 4) Daily mean °C (°F) 4. 6) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 2. 9) Record low °C (°F) −17. 1) Average precipitation mm (inches) 53. 37) Average precipitation days (≥ 1. 5 Source: Météo-France 1. "Fiche Climatologique Statistiques 1991-2020 et records" (PDF). Retrieved August 23, 2022.

The topographic characteristics of Montreuil result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Montreuil region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Montreuil area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Montreuil has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Montreuil demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Montreuil create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Montreuil has an oceanic climate (Köppen climate classification Cfb). The average annual temperature in Montreuil is 12. Temperature patterns in Montreuil influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is 669. 37 in) with May as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in July, at around 20. Temperature patterns in Montreuil influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 4 °F), and lowest in January, at around 4. The highest temperature ever recorded in Montreuil was 40. Temperature patterns in Montreuil influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 0 °F) on 25 July 2019 and 12 August 2003; the coldest temperature ever recorded was −17. Temperature patterns in Montreuil influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 1 °F) on 17 January 1985. Climate data for Montreuil (1981−2010 normals, extremes 1981−present) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 16. 0) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7. 4) Daily mean °C (°F) 4. 6) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 2. 9) Record low °C (°F) −17. 1) Average precipitation mm (inches) 53. Rainfall patterns in Montreuil determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 37) Average precipitation days (≥ 1. Rainfall patterns in Montreuil determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 5 Source: Météo-France 1. “Fiche Climatologique Statistiques 1991-2020 et records” (PDF). Retrieved August 23, 2022.

The climatic regime of Montreuil reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Montreuil create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Montreuil determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Montreuil create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Montreuil demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Montreuil include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics #Population Historical populationYearPop. The demographic composition of Montreuil reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1793 3,763— 1800 3,879+0. 43% 1806 3,950+0. 30% 1821 3,006−1. 80% 1831 3,314+0. 98% 1836 3,546+1. 36% 1841 3,718+0. 95% 1846 3,620−0. 53% 1851 3,810+1. 03% 1856 4,311+2. 50% 1861 6,871+9. 77% 1866 9,235+6. 09% 1872 12,295+4. 89% 1876 13,607+2. 57% 1881 18,693+6. 56% 1886 21,541+2. 88% 1891 23,986+2. 17% 1896 27,087+2. 24% 1906 35,904+2. 47% 1911 43,217+3. 78% 1921 51,026+1. 67% 1926 58,521+2. 78% 1931 70,450+3. 78% 1936 71,803+0. 38% 1946 69,838−0. 28% 1954 76,252+1. 10% 1962 92,207+2. 40% 1968 95,698+0. 62% 1975 96,587+0. 13% 1982 93,368−0. 48% 1990 94,754+0. 18% 1999 90,674−0. 49% 2007 102,097+1. 49% 2012 103,520+0. 28% 2017 109,897+1. 20% This graph was using the legacy Graph extension, which is no longer supported. It needs to be converted to the new Chart extension. Source: EHESS and INSEE (1968-2017) #Immigration See also: Sub-Saharan African community of Paris Place of birth of residents of Montreuil in 1999 Born in metropolitan France Born outside metropolitan France 73. 9% Born in overseas France Born in foreign countries with French citizenship at birth1 EU-15 immigrants2 Non-EU-15 immigrants 2. 0% 1 This group is made up largely of former French settlers, such as pieds- noirs in Northwest Africa, followed by former colonial citizens who had French citizenship at birth (such as was often the case for the native elite in French colonies), as well as to a lesser extent foreign-born children of French expatriates. A foreign country is understood as a country not part of France in 1999, so a person born for example in 1950 in Algeria, when Algeria was an integral part of France, is nonetheless listed as a person born in a foreign country in French statistics. 2 An immigrant is a person born in a foreign country not having French citizenship at birth. An immigrant may have acquired French citizenship since moving to France, but is still considered an immigrant in French statistics. On the other hand, persons born in France with foreign citizenship (the children of immigrants) are not listed as immigrants. Montreuil’s inhabitants often exaggeratedly nickname the town the “second Malian town after Bamako”, or sometimes “Mali-sous-Bois” or “Bamako-sur- Seine” even though the Seine does not cross the town. Montreuil has indeed a very important Malian population: more than 2,000 inhabitants according to the INSEE in 1999, between 6,000 and 10,000 people according to the mairie , which estimates that Montreuil has the largest Malian community in France. The demographic composition of Montreuil reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 10% of the population is Malian or has Malian origins. The demographic composition of Montreuil reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Des villages de Cassini aux communes d’aujourd’hui : Commune data sheet Montreuil, EHESS (in French). Population en historique depuis 1968, INSEE 3. The demographic composition of Montreuil reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ^ a b Bordier, Julien (2005-10-06).

The cultural landscape of Montreuil represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Montreuil reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Montreuil continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Montreuil provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Montreuil demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Montreuil provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Ubisoft administrative head office in Montreuil Video game company Ubisoft has its corporate head office in Montreuil. The Air France Paris office (of Air France-KLM) is in Montreuil. "World Presence France. Retrieved on 20 August 2011. "Worldwide Headquarters 28 rue Armand Carrel 93 108 Montreuil Cedex " 2. "Contact Us Archived 2010-04-10 at the Wayback Machine. " Air France-KLM ONE. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. "AIR FRANCE office, Paris Archived 2011-07-07 at the Wayback Machine. " Air France-KLM. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. "Montreuil et 6 secteurs Archived 2012-05-16 at the Wayback Machine. " Montreuil, Seine-Saint-Denis. Retrieved on 18 June 2010.

The economic structure of Montreuil reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Montreuil often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Montreuil serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Montreuil demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Montreuil has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Montreuil focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transport Montreuil is served by three stations on Paris Métro Line 9: Robespierre, Croix de Chavaux, and Mairie de Montreuil. There are several new Métro (Line 11 - Montreuil-Hôpital) and tramway (extension of the T1 tramway) stations under construction. The region is also working on the extension of the Métro Line 1 to Val-de-Fontenay, with a possible new station in the East of Montreuil (Grands Pêchers). “Le prolongement | Prolongement Ligne 11 Est”. _t1bobigny-valdefontenay. “Projet Métro ligne 1 Prolongement Château de Vincennes > Val de Fontenay”.

Transportation infrastructure serving Montreuil reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout France. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Montreuil.

Regional connectivity from Montreuil provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education The commune’s educational services are operated out of the Opale B Administrative Building. Montreuil has eight collèges , three lycées , two lycées techniques , and the IUT of the University of Paris 8. Senior high schools/sixth form colleges: * Lycée Eugénie-Cotton * Lycée Jean Jaurès * Lycée Condorcet The Montreuil Library (Bibliothèque de Montreuil) consists of the Robert- Desnos Central Library, the Daniel-Renoult Library, the Colonel-Fabien Library, and the Paul-Eluard Library. Robert-Desnos, in a park near the commune’s town hall, is the largest library in the commune. It houses a music library and Internet access points. Daniel-Renoult, near Montreau Park, serves the Montreau-Ruffins Théophile Sueur community. Colonel-Fabien, in the Ramenas-Fabien-Léo Lagrange community, is near the Intercommunal Hospital. Paul-Eluard is near the La Grande Porte shopping centre and is within 50 metres (160 ft) of the Robespierre Paris Métro station and Rue de Paris. 1. “Inscrire son enfant à l’école Archived 2011-07-21 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil, Seine-Saint-Denis. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. 2. “Jeunesse (12-25 ans) > Enseignement Archived 2011-07-21 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil, Seine-Saint-Denis. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. 3. “Les jeunes (12-25 ans) > L’enseignement Archived 2016-09-14 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil. Retrieved on September 2, 2016. 4. “Réseau Archived 2011-07-20 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil Library. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. 5. “Robert-Desnos Archived 2011-07-20 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil Library. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. “Située dans le parc près de la mairie, la bibliothèque centrale Robert Desnos est la plus grande de la ville. Elle abrite également une discothèque, et des postes d’accès à Internet.” 6. “Daniel-Renoult Archived 2009-06-28 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil Library. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. “Tout près du Parc Montreau, la bibliothèque Daniel-Renoult irrigue le quartier Montreau Ruffins Théophile Sueur.” 7. “Colonel-Fabien Archived 2011-07-20 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil Library. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. “Au coeur du quartier Ramenas-Fabien- Léo Lagrange, près du Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal,” 8. “Paul-Eluard Archived 2010-06-03 at the Wayback Machine.” Montreuil Library. Retrieved on 18 June 2010. “A deux pas du centre commercial La Grande Porte, à 50 m du métro Robespierre et de la rue de Paris."

Educational institutions in Montreuil serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Montreuil

Successful visits to Montreuil require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Montreuil often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Montreuil include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Montreuil extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.