Épernon, French commune in Eure-et-Loir, Centre-Val de Loire
Épernon is a small commune in Eure-et-Loir built on a rocky hilltop overlooking a valley crossed by three rivers. Its center features narrow lanes lined with stone buildings and timber-framed houses, while quarry marks remain visible throughout the surrounding landscape.
Épernon was a strategic stronghold in medieval times, fought over by many rulers for its defensive position. From the 17th century onward, local quarries gained fame as stones were extracted for Versailles, Paris pavements, and water infrastructure.
The name Épernon may derive from Latin roots meaning thorn or spike, referencing its rocky perch. The connection to stone extraction has shaped local identity, with quarries remaining central to how residents understand their town's heritage and daily life.
The town sits about one hour from Paris and connects easily by rail on the Paris-Chartres line. Visitors can explore on foot through narrow streets or use the Véloscénie cycling route that passes through, linking Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel across open countryside.
The church of Saint-Pierre hides a mummy and large ossuary in its crypt, a discovery many visitors do not anticipate. Finding these remains feels like stumbling upon a hidden moment of history preserved beneath the church's ancient stones.
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