Discover three emblematic stories of the region
The Pays de Valois, rich in history and enchanting landscapes, is also the cradle of many captivating legends... These stories, mixing mystery, magic and history, fascinate residents and visitors alike.
The mysterious Slide Stone
Lost in the Bois du Roi, near Péroy-les-Gombries, lies a huge, smooth, sloping stone known as the Pierre Glissoire. This rock, reminiscent of a natural slide, is at the heart of an ancient legend. It is said that, on full moon nights, it becomes the setting for festivities for fairies and forest spirits. Crystal-clear laughter and flashes of light amaze the rare witnesses of these magical moments. But beware anyone who disturbs this joyful gathering: the curse would force them to slide endlessly down the stone. This mystical place is also said to have healing properties... In the past, sick children were taken here to heal. Some see traces of an ancient place of pagan worship, testifying to a past steeped in spirituality and forgotten beliefs.
The Lost Treasure of the Templars
Crépy-en-Valois, once a stronghold of the Templar Order, is said to be the guardian of a priceless secret: a treasure hidden beneath the foundations of their commandery. In the 14th century, while the Templars were being hunted by King Philip IV, legend has it that they hid their riches, including gold, sacred relics, and perhaps even the Holy Grail! Protected by traps and incantations, this treasure is said to be guarded by the spirit of a Templar knight. Over the centuries, adventurers and scholars have tried in vain to unravel this mystery. Some say they have felt strange presences or heard whispers in the ruins, reinforcing the veil of mystery surrounding this legendary treasure.
The Lady with the Butterflies
In a village nestled in the heart of the Valois region, there once lived Isabeau, a young woman of captivating beauty, always accompanied by colorful butterflies. These creatures seemed to love her as much as she protected them, which attracted the attention and whispers of the villagers. When a knight named Raoul fell under her spell, he discovered her secret: Isabeau was a butterfly guardian, an entity meant to protect these fragile creatures. Hoping to break the enchantment and live out their love, Isabeau attempted a ritual in a stone circle. But the magic backfired. In a final sacrifice, she transformed herself into a cloud of butterflies, rising into the stormy sky. Since then, on summer evenings, some say they see a flock of butterflies gathering around the edge of the forest, flying in elegant spirals as if dancing around an invisible figure…
