Vernou-la-Celle-sur-Seine
Vernou-la-Celle-sur-Seine is a town located about 78 km southeast of Paris and 39 km from Melun, on the right bank of the Seine near its meeting point with the Loing River. The area has a long history, including evidence of human habitation over 400,000 years ago. Important historical artifacts, including the remains of macaque monkeys and hippopotamus, have been discovered here.
It was in the 11th century that Vernou-la-Celle-sur-Seine was first mentioned in historical records. The current town was officially formed in 1971 by combining two former towns, Vernou-sur-Seine and La Celle-sur-Seine, as part of a government program encouraging communities to join together for administrative efficiency. At the time, Vernou-sur-Seine had 706 residents and received significant financial support from a local power plant, while La Celle-sur-Seine, with 355 residents, had fewer resources.
After discussions and a formal agreement, the two towns merged on January 1, 1972, with Vernou becoming the administrative center and La Celle-sur-Seine retaining local governance as an “associated commune.” By 1977, the idea of a complete merger was proposed. After a community vote, the majority agreed, and a formal merger created the unified town of Vernou-la-Celle-sur-Seine. Today, this fusion is considered a successful example of preserving local identity while uniting resources.