The street names in Coudray-Montceaux bear witness to the love between Henry IV and his mistress Gabrielle d'Estrées, renowned for her beauty. There's Vert Galant Alley, Gabrielle d'Estrées Street and Avenue... she also lent her name to a lovely horseshoe staircase with a balcony, today a historic monument. To see it for yourself, from Rue de l'Église, go down to the rail station and turn left. Look closely and you will see the steps from which, according to local legend, Gabrielle admired the view of the Seine while the king hunted nearby. According to records, the staircase was built during the late 16th century to early 17th century, but the dates don't quite match up with the story. Born in 1573, Gabrielle died suddenly in 1599 while pregnant with their fourth child, when Henry announced his intention to marry her. Surely it can't all be true. What's the real story? When you're in the area, perhaps you could find a local resident who can tell you more about the lovers' legend.
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