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Discover the Origin of Boulogne-Billancourt: An Etymological History

If you've ever wondered why the charming commune west of Paris bears the name Boulogne-Billancourt, you're not alone. The story behind this town's name has fascinating roots that go back centuries. In this article, we'll explore the etymology of Boulogne-Billancourt and the reasons that led to the adoption of this distinctive name.


Bâtiment de Boulogne-Billancourt

Boulogne: A historical legacy


The first element of the name, "Boulogne", has deep historical links. It is directly inspired by the town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, a port commune in northern France. Boulogne-sur-Mer was an important commercial and military center in ancient times, and its name derives from the Latin "Bononia", meaning "port, sea passage". The use of the word "Boulogne" in the name of today's commune is probably a reminder of its history linked to trade and waterways.


Billancourt: A Linguistic Evolution


The second element, "Billancourt", adds an interesting linguistic dimension to the story. It has its origins in Old French, where "bille" meant "stick" and "court" meant "short". This reference to a short stick could be linked to artisanal or agricultural activities practiced in the region at a given time. Linguistic evolution over the centuries transformed this reference into "Billancourt", giving the town its current name.


Merger of Communes


The history of Boulogne-Billancourt has been marked by the merger of several communes over the course of history. In 1924, the communes of Boulogne-sur-Seine and Billancourt were merged to form the town we know today. This merger was motivated by administrative considerations and gave rise to a larger urban entity.


Souvenir of the city


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Porte-clé Toit de Boulogne

In conclusion, the name Boulogne-Billancourt is the result of a rich etymological history and the fusion of two communities. The reference to Boulogne-sur-Mer probably underlines historical links with trade and waterways, while the "Billancourt" element reflects a linguistic evolution over the centuries. The history of this charming town in the Paris region is a testament to France's rich culture and history.

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