Construction of shelter 1939-1940 (≈ 1940)
Built to protect workers according to the laws.
14 novembre 2023
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 14 novembre 2023 (≈ 2023)
Total shelter protection and its annexes.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The conical anti-aircraft shelter, in full, with its semi-entered access and its access trench to the east, located 101 Aristide-Briand Street, on parcel 223 of the AH section of the cadastre of the commune, as shown in red on the plans annexed to the decree: classification by order of 14 November 2023
Key figures
Ingénieur anonyme de l'usine - Design Designer
Designed the shelter in 1939-1940.
Origin and history
The conical anti-aircraft shelter in Villenoy was erected between 1939 and 1940, on the plans of an anonymous engineer from the local sugar factory. It met the legal obligation imposed by the "Passive Defence" laws, requiring factory managers to protect their employees and families from the risk of aerial bombardment. Its reinforced concrete construction, reinforced by railway rails and surmounted by a steel hat, reflects the techniques of the time to resist explosions.
The shelter is distinguished by its imposing conical silhouette, culminating at 18 meters high, and its interior volume spread over 8 levels. The monument, which was entirely classified by decree of 14 November 2023, also includes its semi-entered access and a trench access to the east. It is a unique national example, both in its form and in its history linked to the sugar industry in Villenoy, Seine and Marne.
Located at 101 Aristide Briand Street, the shelter is now owned by the municipality. Although its GPS location is considered "passable" (note 5/10), it remains a remarkable testimony of the civil protection measures put in place during the Second World War. Its utilitarian architecture and social vocation make it an exceptional industrial and military heritage, preserved for its historical role and technical singularity.
