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The History of Nogent-sur-Vernisson

From its first medieval mentions to contemporary developments, Nogent-sur-Vernisson carries centuries of forest and rural history.

Origins

A medieval market town

Nogent-sur-Vernisson is first mentioned in the 11th century. The name "Nogent" comes from the Latin Novientum, meaning a farming estate. The Vernisson, a small tributary of the Loing, gives the commune its geographic identity.

In the Middle Ages, the village developed around its castle mound and church. Its proximity to the royal Orléans Forest made it a strategic location for hunting and forest management by the kings of France.

Did you know? The Orléans Forest was a royal forest prized by the Capetian kings for hunting. Nogent was one of its main gateways.
11th century
First mentions
Appearance of the name Novientum in feudal deeds. Development around a castle mound.
12th–14th century
Medieval growth
Construction of the parish church. The town benefits from traffic on the royal road between Montargis and Orléans.
16th–17th century
Royal forest management
Nogent becomes an administrative centre for the management of royal waters and forests.
1789
Revolution and commune
Nogent-sur-Vernisson officially becomes a commune during the Revolutionary territorial reorganisation.
19th century
Arrival of the railway
The Montargis–Gien railway line opens new economic horizons for the region.
Today
Nature village
Nogent is recognised for its quality of life, its national forest and its preserved natural setting.