Story perspectives

Neauphle-le-Château Residents Reject Khomeini's Controversial Legacy

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Locals in Neauphle-le-Château express frustration over the town's association with Ayatollah Khomeini, who lived there briefly in the late 1970s.
Every February, the Iranian diaspora commemorates Khomeini's stay, which locals view as betrayal given the regime's violent history.
Business owner Pascal Pagand says residents want to forget this chapter.
Artist Jean-Claude Cintas recalls journalists' chaos during Khomeini's presence and urges the town be remembered for cultural contributions like Marguerite Duras.

1 of 1

Story summary

Locals in Neauphle-le-Château express frustration over the town's association with Ayatollah Khomeini, who lived there briefly in the late 1970s.
Every February, the Iranian diaspora commemorates Khomeini's stay, which locals view as betrayal given the regime's violent history.
Business owner Pascal Pagand says residents want to forget this chapter.
Artist Jean-Claude Cintas recalls journalists' chaos during Khomeini's presence and urges the town be remembered for cultural contributions like Marguerite Duras.