Sightseeing in Lille: description, photo

The city, famous for its hospitality, is not in vain called the cultural capital of France. The centuries-old history of the majestic Lille is closely intertwined with the Spanish, Flemish and Austrian cultures, which have left their mark on the architectural appearance.

History of Lille

The exact date of the founding of the settlement is unknown, although scientists are inclined to believe that this happened in 640. The German francs at the site of the future Lille, surrounded by marshes, founded a settlement that was gradually growing. To defend themselves from the invaders, defensive walls were built to contain attacks. Eleven times attacked the long-suffering city, which was part of the Flemish lands.

Thanks to its favorable location, Lille becomes an important shopping center. The cloth industry and agriculture are developing, and city laces are famous to this day far beyond France.

For a long time the city was under the rule of Austria and Spain, but in 1668 the Aachen Peace was signed, according to which part of Flanders, including Lille, left France.

In the middle of the twentieth century, the economy of the city's flourishing industry is declining, and the second branch of the national economy is only getting its second breath after the opening of the e-tunnel under the Channel that connected London and Paris.

City of Lille (France): attractions

Megapolis, in which much reminds of the past and as if returning in ancient times, will surprise all visitors of the city with narrow streets with Gothic facades and modern buildings.

So which attractions of Lille are recommended to visit tourists? Start the tour preferably from the central square - the main historical place, where all important events take place. Named after the politician Charles de Gaulle who was born here, it is considered one of the most beautiful places in the city. A spacious square, surrounded by an ensemble of historical buildings of Flemish architecture, has preserved the color of former times.

At the end of April, a floral bazaar begins to work on it, turning the ancient sights of Lille into a colorful field with a unique aroma. And in winter all the tourists are waiting for the Christmas Fair, which resembles a festive decoration with a real fairy tale.

Monument of the Goddess

It is interesting to look at the monument erected in the middle of the XIX century, in memory of the strength of the spirit of local residents who stood up against the Austrian troops in 1792.

The bronze pillar of the goddess with the crown (La Grande Déesse), on top of which is depicted a woman holding in her hand an artillery fuse, rises from a huge fountain. Interestingly, at the base of the monument are engraved the words of the mayor, who refused to surrender the city to the invaders.

Office of the newspaper La Voix Du Nord

Speaking about the attractions of Lille, you can not fail to mention the editorial office of the newspaper La Voix Du Nord, located next to the column. The ancient building, executed in neoflamand style, is topped with a crenellated roof, and on the facade is a gilded sculpture of three graces symbolizing the former provinces of the region.

Old Stock Exchange

Local residents are incredibly proud of the beautiful architectural monument, built in the middle of the XVII century - the Old Exchange (La Vieille Bourse). Twenty-four buildings, united in a single ensemble, represent the most famous landmarks of Lille (France). Earlier, there were commercial premises for local tycoons, negotiating the price of cotton and linen.

The present palace impresses with magnificent decor of facade ornaments and bright colors, and the example of the Flemish Renaissance is crowned with the symbol of the exchange - the trading god Mercury.

In the courtyard, formed by buildings built in the form of a quadrangle, the largest flea market in Europe operates - a real paradise for shoppers. Inexpensive antiquarian things, rare books, products of local artisans will be a wonderful gift for themselves and their loved ones. Often in a quiet and cozy courtyard, jazz evenings are held, gathering music connoisseurs.

Catholic cathedral

The Neo-Gothic Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille is a new point of travel through the glorious city. The construction of the majestic basilica began in 1854, and ended only 145 years later. Notre-Dame de la Trey is named after the sculpture of the Virgin Mary, which is worshiped by residents of a city like Lille. Attractions of the metropolis bring to the real delight even experienced travelers.

The central part of the 30-meter temple complex is a white marble arch, decorated with a stained-glass window with images on biblical themes. From the inside, the Catholic cathedral, from which is mysterious, is decorated with picturesque mosaics and murals that tell of the life of the saints.

Museum of Fine Arts

All guests of the northern capital of France must visit the second museum of the country after the Louvre, founded in 1792 by the painter L. Watteau. He offered to take from the confiscated property from the churches works of art to educate the people. The first exposition consisted of only 30 paintings. The official status of the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille was received only in 1809 after the decree of Napoleon.

Not only paintings and sculptures were transferred to the largest museum in the world, but also archaeological finds. Now you can admire the richest collection of works by Rubens, Raphael, Monet, Rodin, Van Dyck, Picasso and many others.

The Charles de Gaulle Museum

You can not ignore the attractions of Lille, narrating about the history of the city and the great people who once lived in it. Therefore, another item of the sightseeing tour will be another museum, the exhibits of which will tell about the life of Charles de Gaulle. The room is a cultural center, where the atmosphere of the XIX century is carefully recreated.

The furnishings, personal items, and preserved furniture give an idea of the place where the great politician was born. The exhibition halls of the Maison natale de Charles de Gaulle are open to all comers. The most interesting and curious information about a man who has become a symbol of the national pride of France, is kept only in this museum.

To true connoisseurs of historical and architectural monuments, it is necessary to visit the harmoniously combining past and present of Lille (France). The sights, photos of which are presented in the article, deserve the special attention of all guests of the city. Traveling to a thriving community will present unforgettable emotions and a desire to return here again.