Marolles-En-Brie can be explored through several clearly distinct interests: historic buildings, paths along the Réveillon and golf. Particularly notable are the rib vaults of the Église Saint-Julien-de-Brioude, the successive building phases of the priory and residence, and the different routes by the river and around Marolles. When planning a stay, you can first decide whether church and architectural history, a walk or golf will be your main focus.
Church and Architectural History
The Église Saint-Julien-de-Brioude was designated a historic monument on April 24, 1909. Its apse features some of the earliest rib vaults associated with the development of Gothic architecture. Rib vaults divide the vault surface with prominent ribs; in Marolles, this architectural feature is linked to the early development of the Gothic style.
During excavations in the 1970s, the church’s original floor level was restored. The remains of Marolles’ first five priors were found there. The church’s history thus connects an architectural feature in the apse with a specific archaeological discovery.
The current building of the Priory of Saint-Arnoult was built in the 17th century; parts of the outbuildings are thought to be remnants of the monastic buildings. The central section was extended in the 18th and 19th centuries, and semicircular additions were later added to the south façade. Its building history therefore spans its construction and several subsequent alterations.
La Belle Image is also a historic residence in Marolles-En-Brie. The eastern section dates from the first half of the 17th century, and the southern section, with its recessed side wing, dates from the first half of the 18th century. By comparison, the priory’s building phases described above show development through the 19th century, while La Belle Image comprises two sections of the building assigned to different centuries.
Walking Paths along the RĂ©veillon
The Réveillon forms Marolles-En-Brie’s southern boundary; its banks are accessible for walking. A tree-lined promenade follows the banks to the Yerres. The river thus provides a clear route for a walk: the promenade follows its banks and extends to the Yerres.
In addition, the Fédération française de randonnée provides the Boucle de la Belle-Image walking route around Marolles. The two routes differ in their orientation: one is a promenade along the river, while the other is a named walking route around Marolles. If you want to include a walk or hike in your plans, you can choose between the riverbank and the circular route.
Golf and Winegrowing Tradition
Marolles-En-Brie’s golf course was expanded with nine new holes and now has 18 holes. It is hilly, heavily wooded and often narrow. Beginners and experienced players can practice their short game there. The course features described here and the specific training opportunity both help guide your choice of this activity.
Winegrowing is also part of the town’s history. As part of the revival of an almost-lost winegrowing tradition, the Les Sarments du Réveillon vineyard replaced the former vineyard. Wine from the vineyard can be obtained by contacting the Les Amis de Marolles association. If you would like to arrange this during your stay, contact the association before your trip to coordinate the purchase.
Discover more destinations: Villecresnes, Maisons-Alfort, Bry-Sur-Marne, Fresnes, Le Kremlin-BicĂŞtre, Villeneuve-Le-Roi, Champigny-Sur-Marne, Villiers-sur-Marne.
For the broader travel overview: Val-De-Marne.
