Courbevoie is a northwestern suburb of
Paris, in the Hauts-de-Seine department. It is located in the,
Ile-de-France region. It is only 8.2 km. from the centre of
Paris. It is a densly populated area.
The Champs-Elysees becomes the Avenue-de-Gaulle as it reaches
Courbevoie.
Courbevoie developed as an industrial suburb of
Paris; however, with the general decline in heavy industry, old industrial sites have been redeveloped for commercial and residential use. The development of
Paris’ business district has helped the town’s economic growth and has now spread over the southern part of
Courbevoie.
Courbevoie grew from a humble hamlet of fisherman during the Gallo-Roman era to be a dependence of the Abbey of Saint-Wandrille in the 8th century and then passed to the control of the monks of Saint–Denis in the 12th century.
Courbevoie has been regenerated since being damaged during both World Wars. and is today a modern town, with residential business and shopping areas. However it has retained its lively French atmosphere and has popular markets several times a week. It has all the facilities expected in a modern town including, bars, cafes, restaurant and hotels.
There are also theatres such as the Espace Carpeaux, which hosts events throughout the year. The Museum, Roybet Fould is worth a visit. It was created by the daughter of Achilles Fould who was the Minister for Finance under Napoleon III.
Courbevoie today is becoming an important business and commercial area. It is a centre of craft industry and boasts numerous small and medium-size companies, which contribute to the area’s economy. The old run down areas of the town have been gradually modernised since the late 1950’s and the town is now a good example of modern town planning.
