Nointel brings together several distinct layers of history: ancient remains, medieval architecture and monuments from the 19th century. There is also the short Nointel–Mours circular walk, which is classed as very easy. This lets you choose your own focus for your trip, whether local history, architecture or exercise.
An ancient site and evidence from the 19th century
The Camp de César archaeological site in Nointel has preserved ancient remains. The site is located in the Bois des Côtes and includes the camp’s defensive structures. A decree dated 7 May 1937 listed part of the site as a historic monument. The Nointel Obelisk belongs to a different period: it dates from the 19th century and was erected between 1832 and 1833. Together, these two places give local history a long time frame, but tell it in different ways—here through the remains of an ancient site, and there through a monument from the modern era.
A chapel, a church and distinctive architectural details
The Notre-Dame-de-la-Route Chapel dates from the 14th century. It is located on the RD931, the Route de la Jacquerie, at the edge of Nointel as you leave in the direction of Catenoy. Its location on the outskirts of the village and the direction of Catenoy are therefore just as useful for finding it as its name. The Church of Saint-Vaast offers a different perspective on architectural history: its Romanesque portal has capitals decorated with animal and plant motifs. The church has been listed in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments since 1927. When comparing these buildings, consider two distinct aspects: the chapel’s date and the design of the Saint-Vaast portal.
The former Marquisat farm and the château park
The former Marquisat farm in Nointel is also partly protected as a historic monument; it was listed by decree on 19 March 1992. Its older buildings include a monumental gateway, a grain barn, the former farmer’s dwelling, a bakehouse, a dovecote and a well. These different elements give a multifaceted picture of the former farm, rather than focusing attention on just one building.
Another historical dimension is the protected park of the Château de Nointel. Its French garden layout continues to shape the relationship between the château and the village square, which is also protected. So this is not just about a building or a garden considered on its own, but also about the connection between these two protected places in the village setting. Along with the churches and the former farm, the park shows how varied Nointel’s historical heritage is.
Landscape and a short circular walk
Nointel lies between a wooded hill to the south and a gently rising plateau to the north. This contrast describes the landscape around the village without reducing it to a single landform. If you’d like to include a walk in your travel plans, the short Nointel–Mours circular walk is a clearly defined option: it starts and ends at Gare de Nointel-Mours station and is classed as very easy. The station is therefore both the starting point and the endpoint of the loop.
The historical sites and the walk offer different points of focus. The chapel, the Saint-Vaast portal and the former farm reflect the area’s architecture and local history; the circular walk offers a way to round out your stay with an easy route. This distinction can help you choose your destination: you can consider Nointel primarily for its historical heritage or include the walk as another part of your trip.
A disputed culinary tradition
Béchamel sauce is also associated with local tradition. According to the story, Marquis Louis de Béchameil first made it at his château in Nointel. Historians dispute this attribution.
Discover more destinations: Breteuil, Plailly, Fay-Les-Étangs, Litz, Le Vauroux, Francastel, Troussures, Canny-sur-Matz
For the regional travel overview: Oise.
