Boulancourt

Boulancourt is a village in Seine-et-Marne, Île-de-France, with 332 residents as of 2021. It is part of the Fontainebleau district and within the French Gâtinais Regional Natural Park.

Historically, Boulancourt has ancient roots, with prehistoric artifacts like burial sites and tools discovered. Excavations at sites like "Les Fiefs" have revealed tombs and settlements dating back to around 4500 BCE. Another significant site, "Le Châtelet," shows evidence of ancient defenses, with ditches and palisades that protected residents overlooking the Essonne Valley.

In medieval times, legends mention a castle and a hospital at “La Maladrerie.” The church of Boulancourt was built in the late 12th century and reconstructed after the Hundred Years’ War in the 15th century, reflecting the village's struggle through conflict. Around this period, the influential Cœur family, linked to King Charles VII’s treasurer, owned Boulancourt.

During the French Revolution, church and noble lands became national property and were bought by local farmers. This change led to the establishment of a local council and mayor. In the 19th century, Pierre-Antoine Berryer, owner of the nearby Augerville castle, planted an avenue of chestnut trees between the two villages. Local participation in projects like railway construction left lasting landmarks, such as ponds formed from quarrying near the Essonne River.

Boulancourt’s history show an amazing resilience throughout wars, societal shifts, and local development.