Samois-sur-Seine, commune in Seine-et-Marne, France
Samois-sur-Seine is a small village in Île-de-France situated along the Seine River and surrounded by the Fontainebleau forest. The settlement features old stone buildings on cobblestone streets, a church dating to the 11th century, and riverside villas built in the late 1800s.
The settlement began as a fortified medieval location with defensive features visible in some buildings. By the 19th century it became a retreat for artists and musicians, marking its shift toward becoming a cultural hub.
The village is deeply connected to jazz music, especially through Django Reinhardt, who lived and is buried here. Visitors and residents share an appreciation for music that flows through local cafes and comes alive during the annual festival in late June.
The village is easy to explore on foot with shaded paths along the river and through forests, ideal for walking and cycling. Spring through summer offers the best visiting conditions when flowers bloom and local cafes and restaurants open outdoor seating areas.
Legendary jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt chose to live in this village and is buried in the local cemetery, making it a pilgrimage site for jazz enthusiasts worldwide. A statue of Reinhardt stands on the nearby Île au Berceau island, marking his lasting cultural influence.
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