Ville-Saint-Jacques
Ville-Saint-Jacques is a small, rural village in the Seine-et-Marne region of France, situated near Montereau-Fault-Yonne and Nemours. Set on a plateau with views of the Seine and close to Burgundy, it has a history dating back to the 11th century and became associated with the name Ville-Saint-Jacques in the 12th century, likely due to pilgrims traveling to Compostela.
Historically, Ville-Saint-Jacques was part of the Templars’ and then the Hospitaliers' lands. A notable landmark is its church, Saint Jacques le Majeur, which dates from the 12th and 16th centuries, and there’s an aqueduct from the 19th century that still supplies water to Paris.
In the past, the village produced Brie cheese, called "Brie de Ville-Saint-Jacques," which was known for its charcoal ash coating. Although no longer produced, the village now makes a popular goat cheese. The village also had a train station and, until the 1950s, supported several small businesses. Over time, as more people moved into the area seeking a rural lifestyle, many summer homes became permanent residences.
Today, Ville-Saint-Jacques retains its rural charm, with no large housing developments and a quiet lifestyle. It offers easy access to larger towns and Paris, making it an appealing place for families and individuals looking for a countryside setting.