Crécy-la-Chapelle is a commune in Seine-et-Marne, in the Île-de-France region, 15 km south of Meaux.
Its territory of nearly 16 km² is crossed by the Grand Morin river, a tributary of the Marne on the left bank, by two of its arms (known as "brassets") and several streams: this has earned the locality the nickname of "Venice of Brie".
In addition to the charm of the town which has retained a center with a medieval character, the surrounding countryside has remained green: 55% of the area is still covered with agricultural land and 22% with forests.
Created in 1972 after the merger of Crécy-en-Brie and La Chapelle-sur-Crécy, the small town had been occupied since prehistoric times. Plundered by the Normans in the 9th century, Crécy developed at the turn of the year 1000 when a fortress was built.
On the edge of Champagne, the city benefits from its geographical location: trade and crafts related to river traffic have flourished there since the Middle Ages. Then textile production experienced a notable boom.
Possession of Catherine de Médicis, Gabrielle d'Estrées then the Duke of Vendôme at the beginning of the 17th century, Crécy and its bucolic landscapes inspired many painters in the 19th century.
Today, that reputation lives on. With its heritage of character and its offer of cultural, sporting and "nature" leisure activities, the "Venice of Brie" (4400 inhabitants) proves to be a safe bet for a change of scenery three quarters of an hour from Paris.
The rich heritage of Crécy-la-Chapelle, historical and picturesque, can be discovered via a route which can begin with its collegiate Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption erected during the first half of the 13th century at the level of the old village of La Chapelle. Classified as a Historic Monument since 1846, this masterpiece of Gothic art, restored after the Hundred Years War, notably has an apse vault made up of 12 branches, which give the building an impression of lightness. As for its rows of stained glass windows, they allow the 19 m high nave to benefit from exceptional light.
Having been the subject of substantial work in the 20th century, in particular to prevent possible floods weakening its foundation, the collegiate church supported by buttresses houses a number of works of art (paintings and sculptures), tombstones, baptismal fonts from the 14th century… The site regularly hosts concerts. Open to the public. Guided tour in season or by reservation. Price: 3 to 5 euros. Inquire on +33 1 64 63 70 19.
Then see in the town, the Saint-Georges church rebuilt in 1779 by integrating a 13th century tower, the belfry, remains of the old enclosures and medieval defensive towers, while following quays and alleys with preserved character and whose picturesqueness charmed artists in the 19th century, also seduced by the surrounding countryside.
As for the old seigniorial castle, it was dismantled and away from the flood zones, a new building in the "Gustavian" (Swedish) style succeeded it in the 19th century. The site now hosts seminars. Information on +33 1 30 28 69 69.
It is possible to discover the historic town center alone or with family, the old walkway, the walks along the Grand Morin and its arms lined with washhouses and mills. Guided tours are also offered, as well as routes dedicated specifically to the landscapes of the Valley of the Painters which inspired many artists like Corot. Information on +33 1 64 63 70 19.
Another unique heritage site: the Moulin Jaune estate, which includes several flower-filled spaces by the river. Labeled Remarkable Garden, this colorful and bucolic decor is highlighted through theatrical staging. Open to visitors according to the program of shows. Information on +33 1 64 63 70 19.
Note on the cultural side that the library regularly offers events (readings, meetings): contact +33 1 60 43 48 23.
For athletes, the Périchon stadium has a synthetic pitch, and free access to a pumptrack area, fitness equipment, a fitness trail. Information on +33 1 64 63 94 36.
If the swimming pool is undergoing restoration work (reopening in 2023), it is possible to reserve tennis courts (clay): contact the local club on +33 7 69 57 33 64.
The Grand Morin river also lends itself to the practice of canoeing: an original way of reconciling sport and tourism by observing the medieval city from the river… Contact +33 1 64 17 04 00.
To the south-east of the town, the Crécy golf course is located on 110 hectares: amateurs have a hilly 18-hole course ("Par 74") designed by the architect Arnold Palmer. It is dotted with 14 water points and 63 bunkers. A second 9-hole course designed in an equally green setting is dedicated to golfers wishing to improve their skills. Open all year. Price: from 25 to 35 euros for the 9-hole course and from 55 to 80 euros for the long course. Information on +33 1 64 75 34 44.
Fishing enthusiasts are also at the party: however, it is advisable to join the local association to comply with regulations and find out which sites are suitable (contact on +33 1 64 63 96 35).
The banks of the Grand Morin, its arms and streams, the surrounding hamlets and the forest to the south-east of the territory are ideal for hiking. Marked routes have been designed by the tourist office: maps and information on +33 1 64 63 70 19. You can also join the outings of the local club: information on +33 6 11 05 16 37.
Finally, in a register Different, the 10 hectares of the Parrot World animal park, near the golf course, are synonymous with a change of scenery with a presentation in an environment close to their natural environment of 120 animal species, most typical of South America. The birds (parrots) move about in an aviary, but you can also observe jaguars, otters, penguins... Animations are regularly scheduled, and lodges are available. Open from mid-February to mid-November. Price: from 13 and 18 euros for a single visit. Information on +33 1 86 70 06 84.
