Palaiseau

Palaiseau is a commune in the Essonne department, Île-de-France region, France. It is located in the southern suburbs of Paris, about 20 kilometers from the city center, on the Saclay plateau. The town forms part of the Paris-Saclay cluster, a major hub for higher education, research and technology.

Historically, the area was rural, with agriculture and manor estates shaping its development. The arrival of rail and road networks in the 19th and 20th centuries spurred suburban growth. In the late 20th century the Plateau de Saclay emerged as a focal point for science and innovation, and Palaiseau became closely integrated with neighboring communities in the Saclay research and higher-education ecosystem.

Population and administration: Palaiseau has tens of thousands of inhabitants and is governed by a mayor and municipal council. It is part of the Communauté d'agglomération Paris-Saclay, which coordinates planning, transport and economic development across the area.

Economy and institutions: The town hosts elements of the Paris-Saclay higher-education and research complex, including facilities linked to science, technology and engineering. Retail, local services and light industry support the municipal economy.

Transport: Public transport connects Palaiseau with Paris and other Saclay towns via regional rail and bus networks. The area is linked by major roads to central Paris, Massy and Orsay, and is integrated into the broader Île-de-France transportation planning.

Notable features: The commune includes parks and educational campuses, and serves as a residential base for students and professionals working in the Saclay cluster.