Val-de-Marne , located in Île-de-France, is a department rich in history and abandoned places that captivate urban exploration (urbex) enthusiasts. These sites offer a fascinating dive into the industrial, architectural and historical past of the region. Discover the five must-see urbex sites in Val-de-Marne.
1: The Old Menier Chocolate Factory
The former Menier chocolate factory , located in Noisiel, is an emblematic site of French industrial history. Although partially rehabilitated, some parts of the factory remain abandoned and offer a unique setting for urbex.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Industrial buildings, machines, warehouses.
- State of Disrepair: Rehabilitated areas and abandoned areas.
- Access: Some areas are legally accessible, others require discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing 19th century industrial architecture and machine details.
- Exploration: Discover the remains of an emblematic industry and feel the history of the place.
2: The Aincourt Sanatorium
The Aincourt Sanatorium , although partially used for other purposes, retains abandoned areas that are fascinating for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Medical buildings, patient rooms, treatment rooms.
- State of Disrepair: Buildings partly collapsed, invasive vegetation.
- Access: Restricted, requiring discretion and respect for the premises.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the gloomy atmosphere of abandoned medical rooms.
- Exploration: Walk the corridors and rooms, and imagine the lives of former patients.
3: La Varenne - Chennevières Station
The La Varenne - Chennevières station , although still used for certain functions, has abandoned sections that attract urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Docks, administrative buildings, warehouses.
- State of Disrepair: Disused areas, tagged walls.
- Access: Some areas are accessible, others require discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing old railway infrastructure.
- Exploration: Wander through deserted buildings and platforms to feel the railway history.
4: Esquirol Hospital
The Esquirol Hospital , although still partially in operation, has abandoned wings that are popular with urban explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Medical buildings, patient rooms, labyrinthine corridors.
- State of Disrepair: Cracked walls, abandoned medical furniture.
- Access: Restricted, requiring precaution and respect for the premises.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the mysterious atmosphere and abandoned medical details.
- Exploration: Walk through the deserted rooms and imagine the history of this hospital.
5: The Fort of Champigny
The Champigny fort , built at the end of the 19th century to defend Paris, is today an abandoned place that attracts urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Bastions, casemates, underground tunnels.
- State of Disrepair: Partially collapsed structures, invasive vegetation.
- Access: Restricted, requiring caution and discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing military structures and architectural details.
- Exploration: Explore the underground passages and bastions to feel the military history of the place.
Conclusion
Val-de-Marne offers a multitude of urbex sites for explorers looking for unique discoveries. From abandoned factories to military fortifications, hospitals and deserted train stations, each place tells a story and promises an unforgettable adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can live fascinating and enriching experiences. Happy exploring!
