Places to visit on the Opal Coast

Arc International

Arques

It is the pride of the city and the world leader in tableware: the Verrerie Cristallerie d'Arques welcomes you to its stunning facility in the Audomarois region. Founded in 1825, the Arques Glass and Crystal Factory pioneered the automated production of crystal using tank furnaces. This technological revolution was inspired by the United States, and glass-blowing machines were gradually introduced. Around 1950, innovations continued as decorating machines were introduced, leading to the creation of the company’s first brand: Luminarc. Thanks to the First Industrial Revolution, machinery was refined, and the very first stemmed glasses began to appear. The products were marketed under the Cristal d’Arques Paris brand around 1968. It was not until 2000 that Verrerie Cristallerie d’Arques became Arc International, after establishing sales and production subsidiaries, notably in the United States, Italy, and Spain. Today, Arc International is a world-renowned group—a designer, manufacturer, and distributor—that is increasingly innovative and committed to sustainable development. Discover the design process behind these elegant products during a guided tour of this welcoming facility. You’ll first be introduced to the company and its history; then, a film will reveal all the secrets of glassmaking; finally, you’ll get a hands-on experience with a tour of an authentic production facility. Don’t forget to stop by the store in Arc, which offers its own products, fresh out of the kiln.

Art & Culture Interpretation Center - CIAC

Bourbourg

A space for discovery and exchange, this venue offers numerous events and activities centered around a rich cultural program that blends various artistic disciplines and media. Throughout the year, it hosts temporary exhibitions and a variety of gatherings, readings, and lectures, as well as hands-on art workshops. All of these events allow the public to become familiar with the work “Chorus of Light” by artist Anthony Caro, installed in the church in Bourbourg.

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Espace Tourville - Jean-Bart Construction Site

Gravelines

The Espace Tourville in Gravelines focuses on the full-scale construction of the Jean Bart, a 17th-century first-rate ship (57 m long, 12 to 17 m high, 6 m draft). Set within its artisan village on the edge of Gravelines’ historic harbor, the ship was built by the Association using the same methods and materials as in the past.

Hondschoote City Hall and Municipal Museum

Hondschoote

Built in the 16th century (1558, the date visible in the center of the cornice) of sandstone and white stone, City Hall features elements from the Gothic and Renaissance periods. The imposing façade catches the eye with its gables adorned with “pas de moineaux” and the coats of arms of the families who have shaped the town’s history. Inside is the former courtroom, decorated with panels depicting the town’s history. In the city council chamber, one can see, among other things, the painting of the Battle of Hondschoote (1793)—a gift to the city in 1852 from Alphonse de Lamartine, then a member of the National Assembly—as well as a portrait of Baron Coppens, husband of Marie Bart, niece of the famous Dunkirk privateer Jean Bart. Their grandson was married to Lamartine’s sister.On the first floor, a small museum houses several paintings from the church as well as a series of “Neufs Preuses.” Unlike the façade, the rear of City Hall is constructed of brick. The illusion of seeing bottles in certain places is due to the presence of the Bruges arch. This rear section is also distinguished by a tower and a bulbous bell turret covered with slate. For information and tours (by reservation only), contact Terre de Flandre Tourisme.

The International Center for Lace and Fashion

Calais

Formerly the Boulart factory, the Cité internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode welcomes you to the heart of its history and cultural offerings in the St-Pierre district, the historic center of Calais lace-making. As you stroll through its galleries, you’ll discover the various methods of lace-making, from the invention of the steam engine in the 18th century through the advancements in looms to the present day—and even beyond, as there’s a gallery showcasing future technological innovations in lace. Featuring architecture designed by architects Alain Moatti and Henri Rivière, the site has undergone numerous expansions that blend authenticity with contemporary design; the long facade of screen-printed glass attached to the original building is a true nod to the Jacquard cartoons of the Leavers looms. This former factory, which remained in operation until 2000, now houses a restaurant overlooking the Cité’s inner courtyard, a boutique on the canal side, an auditorium for hosting cultural events, and a documentation center featuring a specialized library and a lace archive. The Cité also offers workshops to visitors eager to learn the techniques of this art form, allowing them to create their own lace pieces. Finally, temporary exhibitions, lectures, and fashion shows are regularly organized there, allowing everyone to experience the world of the greats—Dior, Chanel, Givenchy, and many others.

La Maison de la Beurière

Boulogne-sur-Mer

Built on the side of the cliff, Boulogne’s fishing district, La Beurière, has always been a very unique community. Moreover, it is a magnificent place where stair-step streets wind down toward the shore and the harbor. During World War II, the bombings that struck this densely populated neighborhood scattered the community. Only one street has been preserved almost in its entirety: Rue du Mâchicoulis. It is on this street that the Maison de la Beurière is located, an eco-museum that traces the life of a 20th-century Boulogne seafaring family. As you step inside this authentic fisherman’s house built in 1870, you’ll be moved as you discover: * on the ground floor, the living quarters of a family of sailors around 1900, where the furniture and objects bear witness to a hard and simple life, * on the first floor, the atmosphere and faded colors of this neighborhood: photos, artifacts, and traditional costumes transport you back to the heart of Boulogne’s fishing history, the development of its techniques, and its port, * on the top floor, the library and media center.

The Medieval Historic District

Azincourt

In 2001, Azincourt acquired a major historical, cultural, and tourist attraction... Indeed, the French defeat on October 25, 1415, on the Azincourt plateau against the English army led by King Henry V has been transformed into a major tourist attraction: a chance for redemption... More than just a commemoration of a battle, it is about turning a page in France’s living history as it enters the medieval era. The tour, based on various concepts presented in English and French, combines scenography with talking mannequins, display panels explaining the causes and consequences of the Hundred Years’ War and the Battle of Agincourt, and an interactive exhibit where visitors enter a space where they can get up close to, touch, and handle weapons and armor, imagining themselves as knights on a battlefield. A multimedia area will allow visitors to immerse themselves in sound and images, thanks to infrared audio guide headsets that enable self-guided tours. The center also serves as a hub for documentation, research (photo library, book collection), work and meetings (educational room), cultural events (exhibitions, lectures), and educational services (open to teachers, students, and school groups). Finally, you’ll find a bookstore and gift shop. This tour is accessible to people with limited mobility. A covered picnic area that can accommodate 50 people is available by reservation.

The Castle Museum

Boulogne-sur-Mer

Founded in 1825, the museum is now housed in the count’s castle, built in the 13th century by Philippe Hurepel. Through the Gallo-Roman underground passages, the Guard Room, and the Barber’s Room, you can admire rich collections, some of which are unique in Europe. The collection of ancient Greek vases is the largest in France after that of the Louvre. The first fortified castle without a keep, it was converted into a barracks under Francis I. Later used as a prison, the city purchased it in 1974 and opened its municipal museum there in 1988. Designated a historic monument, the castle-museum offers more than 5,000 m² of galleries displaying magnificent French and foreign earthenware, beautiful porcelain, paintings, and sculptures (Rodin, Barye, Carpeaux, etc.) from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, as well as paintings by 19th-century masters inspired by the Opal Coast (Boudin, Corot, etc.). Also worth exploring: * Egyptian antiquities: a mummy and the inner coffin of the boatman Néhemsimontou (8th century B.C.), the sarcophagus of the singer of Amun (20th and 21st Dynasties), funerary boats and statuettes... * Gallo-Roman antiquities: column bases, funerary bas-reliefs, stone sarcophagi, bronze statuettes, and more * The collection of explorer Alphonse Pinart, which includes tools, weapons, and exquisite carved wooden masks from various Eskimo and Aleut tribes of Alaska. * The glassware collection: display cases 12 and 13 in the museum contain heavy blue bottles from the High Empire and works of art from the Late Empire originating from workshops in Cologne and Trier. * The ceramics collection: glazed pottery and earthenware from Desvres, Boulogne, and Delft dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. * Objects from Oceania, including a Maori war canoe (New Zealand).

Duchess Anne

Dunkerque

If you’re passing through Dunkirk… come aboard the Duchesse Anne. This three-masted square-rigged ship will take you on a journey through its history, allowing you to discover its ingenious structure, featuring 25 sails surrounding the mainmast, which rises 48 meters above the deck. Built to train officers and crew for the German merchant marine, this training ship sailed the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, and also made its way to the Caribbean and South America. Formerly known as the Grossherzogin Elisabeth (in honor of the Duchess of Oldenburg), the Duchesse Anne was launched on March 7, 1901, from Esfleth, its home port, with approximately 150 cadets and apprentice sailors on board, supervised by a highly skilled crew. Already damaged by a fire and then by a major collision in 1931, the three-masted ship was unable to withstand the ravages of World War II. Now under French ownership, the ship served various purposes, including as a naval barracks, a dormitory, and a pontoon. Abandoned in Brest for many years, the ship—which had become a wreck—was restored by residents of Dunkirk who purchased it. Thanks to the support of the association “Les Amis de la Duchesse Anne,” the former German flagship was designated a historic monument on November 5, 1982. Today, as France’s only and last three-masted square-rigged ship, the Duchesse Anne welcomes you to discover its authentic character as a training ship. You’ll have the opportunity to experience life as a cadet and immerse yourself in their maritime world while admiring the magnificent sails and masts.

The FRAC

Dunkerque

The Nord-Pas-de-Calais Regional Contemporary Art Fund (FRAC) has been welcoming visitors since November 16, 2013, in a 9,000-square-meter space that combines a former shipyard building with an innovative structure designed by architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal. With the goal of promoting and supporting the creation of contemporary art, as well as raising public awareness of it, the FRAC offers a truly enriching experience featuring regular rotations of artworks and a commitment to continually inspiring artists to create. Immerse yourself in more than 1,500 works by artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, pioneers of Pop Art. You’ll also find designers and minimalist artists—all styles blend together to the delight of enthusiasts and the curious alike. With permanent and semi-permanent exhibitions—and even displays outside the FRAC—contemporary art welcomes you to Dunkirk.

The LAAC

Dunkerque

A space entirely dedicated to contemporary art—ranging from Concrete Art to New Realism and Lyrical Abstraction—the Lieu d’Art et Action Contemporaine is a lively and dynamic venue committed to continually showcasing its permanent and temporary collections. We owe the building’s originality to architect Jean Willerwal, and the gardens—a true “meeting place”—to landscape architect Gilbert Samel and artist Pierre Zvenigorodsky. Since 1982, the museum has acquired works such as Karel Appel’s “Circus” series and Andy Warhol’s “Car Crash”… In total, you can admire over a thousand works! Open to everyone, the LAAC is an artistic destination for the whole family that’s not to be missed!

The Jean-Charles Cazin Museum

Samer

Jean-Charles Cazin was born in the town of Samer, 17 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer. At age 21, he left to study drawing in the capital. There, he met his wife, Marie, a sculptor who would create a bronze statue of him for the Jardin Public in Samer. A painter who drew immense inspiration from landscapes such as the Boulogne waterfront and the dunes of Wissant, his works are now exhibited from the United States to the Netherlands, including Lille. He settled in Equihen with his small family, and this town would become the Cazin family’s primary source of artistic inspiration. Following his wife’s death, he sold his home and moved to Bormes-les-Mimosas in the Var department. Awarded the Legion of Honor and later promoted to Commander, he received the Grand Prize at the 1900 Paris World’s Fair. The Jean Charles Cazin Museum opened in October 1939 and houses a large collection of works by the Cazin family; over time, the museum has sought to acquire ceramics, drawings, engravings, and paintings. It offers a true testament to the life of this family from Équihen, who drew deep inspiration from the landscapes of our Opal Coast.

The Port Museum

Dunkerque

Located in the heart of a former tobacco warehouse dating back to 1868, the Port Museum showcases the history and evolution of the Port of Dunkirk, the major maritime gateway to northern France and the country’s third-largest port. A visit to this museum traces the origins of Dunkirk, from its beginnings as a small fishing hamlet, through the Age of Privateering and the exploits of Jean Bart, the famous privateer from Dunkirk, to the prosperous era of the Icelandic fishing industry. You’ll discover each major historical milestone in the port’s development, from its imposing fortifications designed by Vauban to its reconstruction after World War II and its commercial and industrial boom. You’ll get to know the people of that era and experience the lives—closely tied to the port—of the seafaring men and women. You’ll gain insight into the evolution of various maritime trades as well as that of ships over the centuries. You’ll explore the two light vessels, the Sandettie (1949) and the Dyck (1912)—both designated as historic monuments—the three-masted training ship Duchesse Anne (1901), also a designated historic monument, and the barge Guilde (1929) round out this tour. Educational activities are available for children. To gain insight into the day-to-day operations of the port, a sightseeing tour is available by bus or boat, as well as a visit to the Risban Lighthouse.

The Roger Rodière Museum

Montreuil-sur-Mer

Housed since 1970 in the chapel of the Hôpital des Orphelins, the Roger Rodière Museum of Art and History underwent a renovation and moved in 2009 to the 18th-century Saint-Walloy mansion. The museum aims to showcase Montreuil’s rich history and artistic heritage. In particular, it features an exhibition dedicated to sacred art, whose collections illustrate the immense devotion that has enriched the city’s churches. Visitors can explore pieces of gold and silverwork, Gothic paintings, sculptures, and medieval reliquaries. Through a simple exhibition design, the display invites visitors to explore the museum’s new premises. You can also view numerous paintings by the “Etaples School,” a group of regional painters formed in the 19th century, as well as works by many Anglo-Saxon visitors. The Roger Rodière Museum in Montreuil-sur-Mer offers temporary exhibitions, lectures, and educational workshops to introduce the public to traditional artistic practices and to preserve and promote the rich heritage of this medieval town.

The Musée de France d'Opale Sud

Berck

Discover our Opal Coast through the eyes of marine artists or even through archaeological artifacts from the coastline. Featuring paintings that capture the spirit of Berck, the museum showcases scenes of shipwrecks, fishing, and the town’s architecture. These paintings are complemented by artifacts from the Gallic period, including jewelry and salt-making tools, some of which date back to the 3rd century B.C. Spanning 700 m² over two floors, this museum showcases the artistic and historical heritage of Berck-sur-Mer, housed in a magnificent traditional red-brick building with a modern interior. During your self-guided tour, you’ll have access to numerous information panels and explanations located near the works, but you can also take advantage of the services of guides who know the collection like the back of their hand. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also features temporary exhibitions covering a wide range of themes and artists.

The 1939–1945 Memorial Museum

Calais

Located in the heart of the city, in a former blockhouse that once served as a command post for the German Navy, the 1939–1945 Memorial Museum offers a glimpse into the hostilities of World War II through its collections of period photographs, newspaper clippings, weapons, and everyday objects from 1939–1945. Built in 1941, the building withstood Allied bombing raids thanks to its 1.50-meter-thick walls and its strategic location, hidden among trees and ruins. As you explore its 20 exhibition rooms, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the painful history of that era through themes tracing the history of the city of Calais and its region from September 1939 until its liberation in 1944. Audio guides are available free of charge. The museum is fully accessible to people with limited mobility.

The Abbé Delétoille Museum

Fruges

Abbé Delétoille, a history enthusiast, had collected a wide variety of objects throughout his life during his many travels. A museum located at the foot of the Grand’Place in Fruges—inaugurated in 1983 in memory of this generous man—displays a large portion of his collections of earthenware, brassware, and antique weapons. Born on February 1, 1887, in Preures, Father Nestor Delétoille was ordained a priest on July 12, 1912. In 1914, he was mobilized as a stretcher-bearer on the French front; he then taught for 18 years at Saint Bertulphe Middle School in Fruges. At age 50, he was put in charge of four parishes, where he restored not only the churches but also numerous chapels. He erected 21 Stations of the Cross. In addition to being a hard worker, he was also a great traveler. He made 39 pilgrimages to Lourdes and three to Santiago de Compostela. He also visited Rome, Greece, and Jerusalem. His collections of Christ figures, statues, and candlesticks were impressive (more than 3,000 pieces). He also amassed a large number of ceramics, pewter items, weapons, and artifacts from archaeological excavations, which he displayed in his home on Rue des Fontaines. He died on June 10, 1968. He bequeathed the religious objects from his museum to the Institution Saint Bertulphe and his other collections to the city of Fruges. Located on the first floor of the Boudenoot Foundation, the exhibition hall dedicated to Abbé Delétoille contains more than 600 objects from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. As you tour the exhibition, rediscover earthenware from 30 different regions, pewter dishes, plates, and candlesticks, utilitarian and decorative brassware, weapons, pipes, shoes, and tools that reflect local craftsmanship. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a trip back in time to the city as it was at the beginning of the 20th century, thanks to more than 200 postcards and documents on display.

The Hotel Sandelin Museum

Saint-Omer

The 18th-century mansion, built of Marquise stone, was constructed in 1776 by the Countess of Fruges. Purchased by the city in 1899, the mansion—built in the classical style—was converted into a museum and inaugurated in 1904. It features three thematic sections—Fine Arts, History, and Ceramics—and showcases a wide variety of collections dating from the 11th to the 19th century, displayed across 21 rooms. On the ground floor, the period rooms will transport you back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries through works of art. You can explore the full richness of the Age of Enlightenment, including the prestigious Teil Chaix d’Est Ange collection, donated to the museum in 1921 and 1933. You’ll also find artifacts from the excavations of Notre Dame Cathedral and St. Bertin Abbey, as well as a collection of 2,000 terracotta pipes from the Duménilleurs factory. For history enthusiasts, there is also a room dedicated to archaeology and prehistoric weapons. This charming venue, restored and refurnished in the period style, is accessible to people with limited mobility and also offers workshops for children.

The Museum of Fine Arts

Calais

Originally located in City Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts is now on Rue Richelieu following numerous relocations. Designed by architect Paul Pamart and inaugurated in 1968, it focuses on local history and ancient art as well as contemporary art, and features sculptures—notably by Rodin—dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as British paintings and photographs. This museum was not spared during the German army’s attack in 1940 and was set on fire, destroying more than 300 paintings, including works by Van Dyck, Poussin, Lebrun, and others… It was subsequently rebuilt, comprising two departments: fine arts and lace. Indeed, it housed rich collections of lace, lingerie, and the machines and tools used in their creation, as well as numerous costumes and accessories. This section of the museum is now housed at the Cité internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode, a restored former lace factory located in the St. Pierre neighborhood. However, you can still visit the rich art collections that await you at the Fine Arts section.

The Atlantic Wall Museum

Audinghen

Audinghen, with its strategic location, had been heavily fortified by the Germans, which explains the presence of a blockhouse (one of their seven largest fortifications), now converted into a museum. This museum is located 1 km from Audinghen and is easily accessible via signs from Cap Gris-Nez. Inaugurated on January 20, 1942, the battery was very active for the remainder of World War II, firing shells as far as the English coast. Historical reenactments will give you a sense of the harsh life led by German soldiers during that time. The museum primarily features an impressive collection of weapons and uniforms (2,000 items), the highlight of which is a 280-mm German naval artillery gun, one of only 25 built by Krupp in 1942. It is one of the only such guns found in the world. Spread across ten rooms are numerous posters and various types of artifacts bearing witness to the atrocities of this dark period. Next to the museum, the panoramic restaurant “La Sirène” serves as the starting point for several trails exploring the natural environment of Le Cap.

The Museum of Le Touquet

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage

Located in a villa built in 1925 in the typical architectural style of Le Touquet, at the intersection of Avenue du Golf and Avenue du Château, is the Musée du Touquet. Inside, there is a magnificent collection of paintings, as well as an entire section dedicated to the history of Le Touquet. The section devoted to painting features a collection of works from the late 19th century. Among the best-known painters of the Etaples School are Eugène Boudin, Fritz Thaulow, Henri Le Sidaner, Jules Dalou, Sarah Bernhardt, and Bourdelle. There is also a collection of works that are particularly representative of modern and contemporary art. Among the notable names featured here are Poliakoff, Vasarely, Debré, Hartung, and Mathieu. The historical section of the Le Touquet Museum contains a wealth of archives related to the Academic Society of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage. These archives trace the history of the resort from its origins, including, among other things, a section on sports art and seaside posters. Finally, the museum aims to be an active center and a place for discovering contemporary art through its permanent and temporary exhibitions. With this in mind, it has already hosted contemporary dance festivals and hopes to increase the number of such events to introduce the public to the subtleties of an art form that is sometimes misunderstood.

The Museum of Drawings and Original Prints

Gravelines

Located in the Château-Arsenal, the museum is divided into sections dedicated to its various collections. The château, dating from 1528, was a former weapons and ammunition depot built by Charles V. As the only French museum dedicated to prints, it explores five centuries of art; each time you visit, you’ll find different prints on display, as the exhibits are changed frequently, and you’ll also find a library with a collection of about 120 books. This vibrant museum offers guided tours, courses, and workshops; on certain days, you can even tour the site’s half-bastion. With its unique collection, temporary exhibitions, and educational activities, the Museum of Drawing and Original Prints is a must-see experience between Calais and Dunkirk.

Le PLUS, Palace of the Universe and Science

Cappelle-la-Grande

Open since 2009 in Capelle-la-Grande, the PLUS (Palais de l'Univers et des Sciences) welcomes you to its 4,000-square-meter space and takes you on a journey into the heart of the life sciences, Earth sciences, and the universe. Above all, the PLUS aims to be a place for fun discovery and hands-on exploration of science in all its fields (biology, astronomy, physics, geology, etc.). With its permanent and temporary interactive exhibits, the PLUS also offers 3D film screenings in its amazing digital planetarium. Everyone will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of space and discover all its secrets in a thrilling way. From the origins of the universe to new technologies, including major scientific discoveries, the PLUS also focuses on raising public awareness about the future of the planet. It is also a key player in sustainable development. Thanks to the expertise and professionalism of its scientific teams, the PLUS offers an introduction to scientific practices through workshops designed primarily for children but also for adults. Finally, the must-visit gift shop lets you take home a small souvenir of your visit, rich in both excitement and knowledge.

House of the Icelander

Gravelines

Discover the traditional homes of 19th-century fishermen in Iceland: coal stoves, kerosene lamps… The Icelandic House has been restored to serve as a memorial. Here, you’ll learn how our ancestors lived. The house consists of a hallway, two adjoining rooms, an attic accessed by a steep, narrow staircase, and a small bedroom. At the back, there is a courtyard and a garden.

House of the Archers

Watten

The Maison des Archers showcases the history of archery using a vertical target pole. Spanning three floors, the exhibition features numerous documents and artifacts that trace the history of this ancient sport, typical of Flanders (both French and Belgian) and the Artois region. But what exactly is it? Armed with a bow and arrows, the archer must knock down “the birds” (small cylinders adorned with feathers) hanging from a grid at the top of a vertical pole (the “perche”) standing 30 meters high.Come meet the giant “Dédé the Archer,” who’s waiting for you there—a treat for young and old alike!

Maréis

Étaples

In operation since 2001, discover the world of commercial fishermen at the Offshore Fishing Discovery Center. A source of great pride and a testament to Étaples’ expertise, the entire building is dedicated to this profession, which requires tremendous courage and knowledge. Whether you take a guided tour or explore on your own, your visit will take place in the “Corderie,” a former fishing net factory built in 1921. All guided tours are led by retired fishermen or their families, making each tour unique and fascinating. It’s a fun experience—you can tie your own sailor’s knot or explore the aquariums using an underwater camera. From mollusks to fascinating echinoderms, more than 500 animal species are featured alongside collections of fishing techniques and photographs. Take the helm at the Maréis bridge, a full-scale replica of a fishing boat’s bridge. You can also attend the educational and awareness-raising exhibits, each of which, of course, relates to the marine world. And why not try your hand at cooking at Maréis? The center welcomes you every month to prepare delicious dishes featuring local flavors.

Dunkirk 1940 Museum

Dunkerque

Battle of Dunkirk – Operation Dynamo This museum is housed in the casemates of Bastion 32, which were built in 1874 as part of efforts to strengthen coastal defenses. Bastion 32 served as the headquarters for French and Allied forces during the Battle of Dunkirk and Operation Dynamo. The Dunkirk 1940 Museum tells the incredible story of this battle and the evacuation of more than 340,000 Allied soldiers from the “Dunkirk Pocket.”

Mont de Piété Municipal Museum

Bergues

A jewel of Flemish Baroque art, the Mont-de-Piété in Bergues was built between 1629 and 1633, based on plans by the painter, architect, economist, and engineer Wenceslas Cobergher.The museum is housed in this elegant rectangular brick building with stone trim, windows with low arches, a slate roof with multiple openings, and two richly decorated gables.Listed as a historic monument in 1907, it houses a significant collection of paintings and drawings from the 16th to the 19th centuries, primarily from the Northern schools, as well as a natural history collection. Its centerpiece is “The Fiddler with the Dog,” part of the series of fiddlers painted by Georges de La Tour beginning in 1620. The museum also houses a significant collection of drawings (1,500). The museum is closed from November through the end of April.

Maritime Museum

Grand-Fort-Philippe

It is, of course, in the former fishing school that the museum tells the maritime history of Grand-Fort Philippe and, naturally, the epic story of “fishing in Iceland.” For centuries, the Icelandic coast attracted fishermen who braved storms, the risk of shipwreck, and terrible living conditions to hunt whales but, above all, to fish for cod. The men would set out between February and April on long fishing trips that wouldn’t bring them back to shore until September. The model boats, antique artifacts, and various documents on display offer insight into this traditional fishing industry, which shaped local life for generations.

Jean-Pierre PINCEEL Grape Harvest Museum

Hondschoote

This museum tells the story of a group of friends who one day had the idea—admittedly a bit outlandish—to plant a few grapevines and make wine in the land of beer!The first vintage was more like vinegar, but that didn’t discourage them, and other companions joined this group of friends. Each contributed their skills and did their part through their connections, notably a winemaker from Vouvray—an Honorary Citizen of the City of Hondschoote since 2009—who advised them on planting, pruning, and winemaking.They needed to find a name for this cheerful and friendly team. That’s how the “Les Tastewijn” Association (wine tasters) was born, also known as the “Confrérie des Compagnons du Vin de Flandres.” Thanks to generous donors, they were able to establish the Harvest Museum in the cellars of Hondschoote City Hall. Tours and tastings are available by reservation for €5 per person.

Rescue Museum

Grand-Fort-Philippe

In this former lifeboat house—now converted into a museum—photos, historical artifacts, and newspaper clippings tell the story of rescue operations, from the first line-throwing cannon and its ring buoy to the modern vessels of the SNSM (Société Nationale de Sauvetage en Mer). One lifeboat still stands as a testament to the last rescue missions at sea before Dunkirk took over.

Business Immobilier Bâtiment expertise Cabinet indépendant d'expertise en technique du bâtiment Marquise

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Business Loisirs Route 39/45 Itinéraire réunissant quatre musées et sites sur la Seconde Guerre Mondiale Éperlecques

Religious building 14

Calvary

Saint-Aubin

A covered wayside shrine made of brick, featuring a small gate with blue wrought-ironwork. It is set within a small enclosure containing two other shrines and a tree. A remarkable tree stands opposite it, marking the crossroads.

The Carillon of the Bourbourg Church

Bourbourg

Featuring 50 bells, the instrument plays automatically or when struck by the carillonneur. Today, it is one of the most beautiful carillons in France.

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Notre-Dame des Flots Chapel

Gravelines

The chapel stands proudly amid the dunes of Petit-Fort-Philippe. Built in the 18th century and destroyed in 1789, it was rebuilt on the seashore in 1829. The 18th-century statue of the Virgin Mary is brought out onto the forecourt—an exceptional occurrence—for a Mass in memory of those lost at sea and for the Icelanders every September.

St. Joseph Chapel

Saint-Aubin

A square-plan chapel built of brick and blue stone (base and facade).

St. Paul's Abbey

Wisques

Located in the small village of Wisques, 7 kilometers from Saint-Omer, Saint-Paul Abbey offers a fascinating tour, both historically and architecturally. The abbey, also known as “the great castle,” was built on the site of the former Wisques Castle, which was constructed after the Hundred Years’ War. All that remains from that period is the keep, crowned by two turrets and four towers (late 15th century), a small courtyard to the west, and the large Saint-Bertin Tower (early 15th century). The building was later expanded in the 18th century with a residence and a porch that are quite characteristic of the region. The Benedictine brotherhood settled there in the 19th century. In 1930, a series of modern elements were added. The “poet of brick,” Dom Bello, a Dutch architect heavily influenced by the Amsterdam School, added a cloister and a refectory with elegant proportions, making subtle use of the building materials. Joseph Philippe completed the complex with a chapel (in 1957) and then a guesthouse (in 1968). Originally intended to be a monastic library, Joseph Philippe’s chapel is remarkable for its choir, which features a magnificent brick drapery. In addition to guided tours, visitors can admire the ceramics crafted by the monks and sold in the shop located near the pottery workshop. Finally, visitors can attend Masses sung in the Gregorian chant tradition.

Notre-Dame Church

Calais

Having survived bombings and several construction projects, Calais’s oldest building now stands on Rue de Croy. When construction began in the 13th century, Adrien de Wissant had the church built on the site of the current transept. Extensive expansion projects were then undertaken through the 16th century, and it was during the English occupation that the upper sections of the nave, the choir, and the bell tower were built. Built in the Tudor style, this church drew on its British influences to reach its final form in the 17th century; a chapel and a Baroque altarpiece were added at that time. A testament to medieval architecture, the Church of Notre-Dame de Calais also features a massive tower supporting the bell tower at the intersection of the transept and the nave. As you head toward the north side of the nave, you’ll notice a cistern with a capacity of 1,800 m³ that was used to collect rainwater; it was built by Vauban in 1691 to meet the population’s needs in the event of a siege. It was in this building that General de Gaulle and Yvonne Vendroux were married in 1921. Nothing could prevent the Allied bombings during World War II, which occurred one week before the city’s liberation; as a result, the bell tower collapsed onto the transept, and the altarpiece sustained severe damage. Since then, the church has undergone extensive restoration, which will allow visitors to appreciate the full originality of its architecture.

St. John the Baptist Church

Bourbourg

Built in the Gothic style, construction of this church began in the 13th century on the site of the former convent. Altered several times, it collapsed following a fire during World War II. Its restoration took a long time and remains unfinished. The best-preserved part is, without a doubt, the trefoil-arched portal, its small columns, and its 12th-century Romanesque nave. The decorative elements of the 13th-century Gothic choir, such as the sculptures on the capitals and the keystone bearing the effigy of Saint John the Baptist, patron saint of the parish, are exceptionally delicate. The pointed-arch choir was designated a Historic Monument in 1920. Located at the crossing of the transept, the massive tower houses a carillon. The church also features magnificent stained-glass windows by Art des Gobelins. The large stained-glass window at the rear of the church, located above the portal, depicts the baptism of our Lord by Saint John the Baptist. Twelve stained-glass windows depict events from Bourbourg’s religious history, such as the attack on the statue of Our Lady of Bourbourg in 1383, the fire at the church on May 25, 1940, and the founding of the St. John Hospice to welcome pilgrims to Notre Dame de Bourbourg. You can explore all of these features during a guided tour.

St. Eloi Church and Its Belfry

Dunkerque

Built in the 13th century to serve as a watchtower, the belfry also served as a landmark for fishermen in the town of Dunkirk. In 1440, the Lord of Dunkirk, Robert de Bar, decided to raise the tower to its current height of 58 meters and turn it into the bell tower of Saint Eloi Church, which was built at the same time. The current carillon dates from 1962; the previous one was lost in 1940 during the massive fire that destroyed the city and the floors of the belfry. It consists of 48 bells with a total weight of approximately 16 metric tons; the largest bell, “Jean Bart,” weighs 7 metric tons on its own. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the belfry consists of six stories and tapers gradually: it measures 15 meters wide at the base and 8 meters at the top. You’ll find the city’s tourist office at its base, and by taking the elevator, you’ll be able to discover Dunkirk’s most important landmarks thanks to the panoramic view. The Cenotaph, located at the base of the belfry, pays tribute to all victims of war. Built in the 15th century, St. Eloi Church was designed in the shape of a Latin cross with a transept. In 1558, during the Spanish occupation, French forces, led by Marshal des Thermes, invaded the city, burning and devastating everything in their path; only the tower escaped destruction. A new church was rebuilt in a different style (Gothic). Only a vault connected the church to the belfry, providing a passageway for pedestrians. It was not until 1787 that the church was permanently separated from the belfry. It therefore had to be adorned with a façade. The first was designed by the Parisian architect Victor Louis. The current façade dates from 1894 and was designed by Van Moë. This church sustained extensive damage during both world wars and was restored after each one. It has been designated a historic monument since 1916.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Boulogne-sur-Mer

In 636, a boat containing a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus was discovered in the Liane estuary. It was placed in a chapel in the upper town, built on the site of a Roman temple. In 1100, in order to accommodate more pilgrims coming to pay homage to the Virgin, Countess Ide of Boulogne decided to have a Gothic-style church and crypt built in place of the chapel. After Louis XI granted her suzerainty over the County of Boulogne in 1478, the Virgin and her cathedral suffered extensive damage due to the wars with England and the religious wars of the 16th century. In 1793, the revolutionaries burned this ancient image of the Virgin Mary; all that remains today is a fragment of her hand, preserved in a reliquary. Five years later, the cathedral was completely razed. It was thanks to Father Haffreingue that the basilica was rebuilt between 1827 and 1857, modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. In 1866, it was consecrated as the Cathedral of “Notre Dame and St. Joseph,” and a new statue of the Virgin Mary, carved from oak, was created. Since 1854, from the Feast of the Assumption to the last Sunday in August, the annual pilgrimage to Notre Dame de Boulogne—which concludes with a grand procession through the city streets—has continued to attract many pilgrims from the region and beyond. During a visit, it’s hard to miss the 88-meter-high dome, the carved oak pulpit in the Louis XV style, the Crowned Virgin, and the Chapel of the Sacred Heart with its marble work. The cathedral’s crypt is one of the largest in France, measuring 128 meters long and 42 meters wide; it is also a must-see during your visit.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Saint-Omer

This former collegiate church dedicated to Saint Omer became a cathedral in 1561. Listed as a historic monument since 1840, this cathedral is shaped like a Latin cross. It is 105 meters long, 51 meters wide, and 22.9 meters high at the vault. It is undoubtedly the most beautiful intact Gothic monument in northern France. Saint-Omer Cathedral offers a comprehensive overview of Gothic art and its evolution. Upon entering, you can admire the naves dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, as well as various works of art such as the organ case from 1717—a masterpiece by the Piette brothers, considered the most beautiful and original of its generation. Another masterpiece of the Basilica of Notre-Dame is the astronomical clock, dating from the mid-16th century. As for funerary art, you can admire the tomb of Saint Omer (13th century) or that of Saint Erckembode (abbot of Saint Bertin), who is deeply venerated for his healing of children—which explains the many small pairs of shoes placed on the tomb. A multitude of small chapels situated around the nave are also worth seeing. The Descent from the Cross, dating from 1620, is Rubens’ fifth and final Deposition. This work showcases the artist’s genius. The statue of Our Lady of Miracles stands in the center of a gilded wooden altarpiece located in the cathedral’s south transept. Finally, you’ll notice engravings on the floor slabs depicting various subjects, such as the signs of the zodiac and different trades.

The Notre-Dame des Dunes Chapel

Dunkerque

Commonly known as the “little chapel,” it was built in 1815 on the site of a 15th-century oratory, in honor of a miraculous Virgin Mary whose wooden statuette had been found near a freshwater spring during the construction of Dunkirk’s ramparts. A rare testament to Dunkirk’s origins, the chapel later became a place of worship and devotion for seafarers, particularly fishermen. After undergoing numerous expansions and renovations, the chapel today consists of a main nave with two wings running perpendicular to it, as well as a magnificent vaulted ceiling well known for its constellation of stars. Today, every August 15, the Blessing of the Sea ceremony takes place. During this ceremony, the statue is carried in procession by the Bazennes (the wives of fishing boat captains). Inside the chapel are numerous ex-votos and model boats suspended from the ceiling, in gratitude for the Virgin’s protection. In addition, a fountain was dedicated in 2004, symbolizing the freshwater spring that was miraculously discovered at the time.

St. Peter's Collegiate Church

Aire-sur-la-Lys

To replace the Romanesque church of the Chapter of Canons, a collegiate church was built in Aire-sur-la-Lys in the 16th century. Construction on this building spanned nearly a century and a half. Built in the Flamboyant Gothic style, this impressive structure is primarily made of brick and stone. Despite its considerable size, the tower collapsed shortly after construction was completed in 1624. It was not until 10 years later that the reconstruction was finally completed. The collegiate church was subsequently severely damaged by the sieges it endured from 1641 to 1710. The transept, the chapter house, and some of the chapels were destroyed and burned. The vaults of the nave and the tower collapsed, and in 1944, the choir could not withstand the bombings. Designated a historic monument in 1862, this building bears witness to numerous restorations, as evidenced by its various architectural styles. Indeed, on the ground floor, the nave, the choir, and the high vaults are still in the Gothic style with their ribbed vaults, while the upper floor and the decor reflect the passage of time, evolving into a classical and Baroque style. In addition to its architectural splendor, the collegiate church features a rich collection of furnishings, such as an organ case dating from 1633, the statue of Our Lady of Panetière, who watches over the town with a protective eye, the rood screen, and the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament with its Virgin and Child.

The Ruins of Saint-Bertin Abbey

Saint-Omer

In the year 640, a chapel was built in the upper part of the town of St. Omer, only to be later moved to the lower part. Upon his arrival, Bertin deemed the oratory too small and had a monastery built; the final structure was constructed between 1326 and 1520. From then on, the monastery hosted a large number of illustrious figures; for example, in 1395, Charles VI stayed there for a few days, followed by other visitors such as Charles V and Louis XIV. Toward the end of the 18th century, the monks were expelled from the abbey; the buildings, sold to private individuals, were soon abandoned. In 1830, the monastery was demolished; only the tower remained. During World War II, a shell struck the left buttress, causing its collapse. As a result, the tower collapsed, and all that remained of the abbey were ruins. This building, a fine example of Gothic architecture, was one of the few monuments of such scale to be constructed at the time. Its dimensions are colossal: total length is 120 m; width including the transept is 45 m; the tower is 58 m high; the nave is 23 m wide; and the height under the vault is 28 m. Opposite the abbey, which was designated a historic monument in 1840, stands a statue of Abbot Suger, originally from the gardens of Versailles and installed in the second half of the 19th century, which highlights the ruins of the monastery.

Fortified Site and Tower of Watten Abbey

Watten

Located on the heights of Watten, at an elevation of 72 meters, the remains of the 17th-century fortified walls still surround the 15th-century abbey tower and the mill known as “La Montagne.”This listed site is open to the public only on certain days and during the second weekend in August for the abbey festival. The mill bastion is freely accessible to the public year-round and offers superb panoramic views of the coastal plain and the Audomarois region.The other bastions are not open to the public but can be viewed from the outside. Signage and educational panels placed along the Sentier de la Montagne (connecting the fortification to the town) help visitors understand the history of the site and the surrounding landscape.

Castle 3

Castle

Hardelot Castle

Condette

Located on the outskirts of Condette, the Château d'Hardelot overlooks the Lac des Miroirs and stands in the heart of a forest teeming with game. Built in the 9th century to defend against German invasions, it was restored in the 13th century by Philippe de Hurepel. At that time, it consisted of nine medieval towers and had a polygonal shape. Now damaged, only part of the outer wall remains, along with the guardrooms, which are now occupied by the current tavern. In 1848, Sir John Hare purchased it and had it redesigned in the Tudor Revival style. His friend Charles Dickens was a frequent visitor to this residence, which he admired so much. In the early 20th century, the castle became the property of John Whitley, who devised a plan to develop a seaside resort centered around the castle. However, tourists’ preference for the sea prevailed, and the resort was relocated. From 1958 to 1975, the castle served as a residence for the Sisters of St. Agnes of Arras. Today, a medieval tavern is located in the former guardrooms. A discovery trail marked with signs recounting the site’s history has been created so that visitors can admire the castle’s ramparts. Its prisons, dungeons, watchtower path, and underground passages still bear witness to the harsh and epic life of that era.

Castle

Fressin Castle

Fressin

The village of Fressin is a former medieval estate. It once belonged to the most prominent Créquy dynasty. Its Gothic church features a seigneurial chapel. The castle was built by Jean V de Créquy, one of the principal advisors to the Duke of Burgundy and a Knight of the Golden Fleece. This figure plays an important role in French history, as he participated in the capture of Joan of Arc and helped France secure victory over England during the Hundred Years’ War. His 15th-century castle served as both a great defensive fortress and a richly decorated residence. Its numerous towers and bastions provided its primary defense. Designated a Historic Monument in 1997, this feudal fortress now welcomes visitors with exhibitions and screenings that bring to life daily life at the castle, its construction techniques, and its evolution. Don’t miss the gardens, which span 3 hectares and allow you to discover the wonders of botany in a picturesque setting. The site also offers fun scavenger hunts with puzzles for children and audio-guided tours for adults. The village has preserved a beautiful collection of historic civilian architecture, including mansions, monumental porticos, a forester’s house, dovecotes, and more, dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

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Castle

Pont de Briques Castle

Saint-Léonard

Built around 1640, the Château de Pont-de-Briques served as Napoleon I’s headquarters from 1803 to 1805, during the Camp de Boulogne. Converted into an orphanage around 1900, the castle was repeatedly damaged in an effort to make way for a new road. In 1974, the building was preserved after being designated a Historic Monument. After being neglected for a long time, the Château de Pont-de-Briques has been undergoing restoration since 2000. The site, which has been converted into a museum, traces the castle’s history from its origins to the present day, covering the war between France and England and Napoleon’s life during that period. The goal is to raise public awareness of the castle’s history. The creation of the Legion of Honor and the Column of the Grande Armée are also highlighted here. Furthermore, this site serves as an educational resource, allowing children to discover a forgotten part of their history, the symbolism of monuments, and the evolution of urban planning in the Boulogne region through numerous maps of the Camp de Boulogne.

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Fortification 11

Vauban Fortified Complex

Gravelines

Gravelines has preserved its entire bastioned wall, a fortress rebuilt in 1558 on top of a 14th-century medieval wall. This architectural gem is designated a “Historic Monument” within the grounds of the beautiful Porte aux Boules. A stroll along the rampart walk allows visitors to explore the 17th-century guardhouses, the cistern—whose vaulted chamber naturally stored and filtered water—and the Varennes and Uxelles barracks. The entire complex has been transformed into a cultural space, housing the Museum of Original Drawings and Prints and serving as the city’s cultural hub. A collection of contemporary sculptures by Charles Gadenne offers a poignant moment of emotion during the walk.

Mimoyecques Fortress

Landrethun-le-Nord

A secret underground base from World War II designed by Hitler to house the V3 supergun aimed at London. A poignant memorial site that also serves as a preserved nature reserve.

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The Citadel

Calais

Built on the ruins of a medieval castle, the citadel is located at the northwest corner of the city (Avenue Pierre De Coubertin). It was Philippe le Hurperel, Count of Boulogne, who, in 1229, decided to build a medieval castle consisting of a square enclosure with six towers and a keep to protect the city. Initially inhabited by the counts of Boulogne and Artois, it later became a residence for the kings of England until 1558: Edward III resided there and fortified it for the first time. Since the medieval castle no longer met the needs of warfare, it was decided to build a citadel. Many houses were razed to make way for the construction site. Vauban (already known for Fort Nieulay) oversaw the restoration of the fortifications. Ultimately, the castle was completely destroyed in the 19th century. Visitors can still see the medieval ramparts, the emergency gate known as the “Porte de Boulogne,” and the Neptune Gate, also called the “Porte Royale.” Some of these gates have been designated as historic monuments, as have the moats and curtain walls. Today, the Citadel is surrounded by a neighborhood built in the regional style (red brick) dating from World War II and features a walking area and sports facilities. In fact, electric boats are available to cruise along the walls and explore the ruins in a different way. Now converted into a multi-sport and school stadium, the citadel features soccer fields, rugby fields, tennis courts, and more, allowing everyone to enjoy sports in a stunning historic setting.

La Coupole

Helfaut

From November 1943 to March 1944, the Nazis began construction of the launch silo for the V2 rocket near Saint-Omer. This revolutionary secret weapon was developed by the Germans with the aim of destroying London and turning the tide of the war in their favor. Today, the dome serves as a history and memorial center chronicling a period of World War II: the space race, German secret weapons, and the German occupation of northern France... Thanks to historian Yves Le Maner, who oversaw the development of the historical program, you can relive the relationship between war and science, the Nazi system, the violence of the Blitzkrieg, the “gray” days of the occupation, the anonymous battles of the Resistance, as well as the joys and sorrows of liberation, through numerous exhibits such as films, documents, models, and eyewitness accounts. To construct the concrete dome, German engineers developed an innovative process that allowed for the rapid construction of this colossal structure. Using massive excavators, they drilled into the chalk on the surface of the plateau. Next, this mold was covered with earth to perfect its shape and reinforced with a strong steel framework. Then, the engineers poured concrete using pumps. Today, this 55,000-metric-ton structure has become a memorial, a testament to Nazi madness. Infrared audio guides (available in four languages: French, English, German, and Dutch) and video discs are at your disposal. Allow two and a half hours to explore this fascinating site at the heart of history and science. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop, which offers books, souvenirs, and regional products.

The Eperlecques Blockhouse

Éperlecques

Located on the edge of the Eperlecques Forest, this 22-meter-long blockhouse was originally intended for the launch of V2 rockets designed to destroy London during World War II. Between 1943 and 1944, more than 35,000 prisoners helped build the blockhouse, but during the 1943 bombings by the British “flying fortresses,” the project was repurposed, and the structure became a plant for producing liquid oxygen, intended to power the engines of a new generation of rockets. You’ll enter the blockhouse—designated a historic monument in 1985—through a 2-meter-thick reinforced door. The vastness of the halls and the jagged structures create an eerie atmosphere. During the tour, you’ll see terrifying “secret weapons” of the Third Reich and notice the thickness of the walls (5 meters). The upper slab, 7 meters thick, was raised using a system of jacks that lifted the roof as construction progressed, allowing the project to be completed while protecting the prisoners from bombing raids. The guided tour of this site and an audio tour (featuring documents, commentary, sound effects, etc.) presented inside the fortress will allow you to relive, with great emotion, the history of the structure, the technology behind the V2 rockets, and the construction techniques used for the bunker... all while allowing for a leisurely stroll through its parks. The site offers audio tracks and audio guides in 8 different languages, a visual guide in sign language, and is accessible to wheelchair users accompanied by an assistant.

Fort Risban

Calais

Located on the coast, Fort Risban is one of the last coastal forts on French territory. Designated a historic monument in 1990, this fort was long a strategic stronghold for the city and has undergone numerous modifications since its construction during the Hundred Years’ War. In 1346, upon the arrival of the English in the Calais region, King Edward III decided to build a heavily armed wooden tower on top of Calais’s existing fortifications. The sole purpose of this was to prevent any supplies from entering from outside and thus to besiege the city through starvation. Having taken control of the city, the English replaced the wooden tower with a tall stone tower equipped with cannons, the Lancaster Tower. Situated on a sand spit, the fort was gradually separated from the dunes by ocean currents, eventually becoming entirely surrounded by the sea. After 1450, the Lancaster Tower took the name Risban and was enclosed by a polygonal wall that also included two other towers. In 1558, Risban returned to French control, and the governor of Calais decided to lower the height of the Lancaster Tower, which at the time posed a threat to the city. Two bastions were added, and in 1622, the fort served as the starting point for the construction of a seawall extending to Sangatte. In 1799, a gunpowder depot exploded, causing significant damage, but this did not prevent the fort from serving as the port’s main defense in the 1850s. During World War II, it sheltered many residents of Calais fleeing the bombings. Beginning in 1950, the fort’s ruins were opened to boaters; today, it serves as the headquarters of the Calais Yacht Club.

Fort d'Ambleteuse

Ambleteuse

Formerly mistakenly called “Fort Mahon,” the Fort d’Ambleteuse was built between 1682 and 1690 based on Vauban’s plans. Louis XIV had ordered its construction to protect the city. It is referred to as a Napoleonic fort because it was restored and rearmed in 1802 by Napoleon. The fort consists of an entrance courtyard, a casemate tower with a ring vault, an upper battery, a lower battery, and three levels of artillery emplacements. The Romans had already built a tower at this site, which was later converted by the English in 1544. This “castle of the seas” was a strategic location because, opening directly onto the English Channel, it was visible for miles around. This location made the fort impregnable. Falling into ruin very quickly due to the elements and disuse, the fort was acquired by private individuals and restored. Abandoned and in ruins once again after the war, it was purchased in 1967 for a symbolic 1 franc by the association “Les amis du Fort d’Ambleteuse.” Thanks to this effort, this historically designated monument is now open to visitors and awaits you, standing isolated on the banks of the Slack and its coastal dunes.

The Fort des Dunes in Leffrinckoucke

Leffrinckoucke

Following the War of 1870, the Fort des Dunes de Leffrinckoucke was built between 1878 and 1880 to protect the port of Dunkirk. Designed in the Séré des Rivières style, it is the only inland fort on the coast and covers 50,000 square meters, an impressive site steeped in history. This site was the scene of Operation Dynamo during the Battle of Dunkirk in 1940, a true tragedy in which many French, Belgian, and British soldiers perished as a result of the German bombardments on June 2 and 3. Four years later, eight members of the Resistance were killed there and are buried in the cemetery at the foot of the fort. Its German occupation left its mark; for example, the powder magazine was converted into a performance hall. There’s much to learn about this fort through guided tours lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes, an audio-guided tour of the entire outdoor site, or temporary exhibitions inside the fort. An animated model will also help you better understand Operation Dynamo. A must-see destination that serves as a true memorial site.

Fort Nieulay

Calais

Not far from Coquelles, the fishing village that later became Calais was built on the Banc des Pierettes, a stretch of dunes and pebbles cut through by the Hames River. Later, an English fortress was built there to protect the city using a system of locks; these could be destroyed in the event of an enemy attack, which would flood the Lower Calais region and prevent any invasion. In 1558, the Duke of Guise seized it. It was then that Louis XIV planned to rebuild a new fort, still straddling the river, by placing the locks inside the fort to better protect them. Vauban oversaw the reconstruction of the fort, which can be visited today. Built almost entirely on stilts and featuring thick brick walls, it served as the town’s strategic defensive stronghold. Indeed, facilities were provided for the soldiers (living quarters, food storage, armories and ammunition depots, a cistern, a chapel, etc.). After long and turbulent periods, the fort is now a peaceful place, ideal for relaxing afternoons surrounded by expansive green spaces. Tours of the powder magazine, the supply depots, and the Major’s quarters will take you on a journey to discover the defenses of France’s only lock-fort.

Fort de la Crèche: From Stone to Concrete

Wimereux

The "Fort de la Crèche," built 75 meters above sea level, upstream from the headland of the same name, overlooks the harbor of Boulogne-sur-Mer. It was built in 1879.It is one of the fortifications built according to the “Séré de Rivières” system following the defeat at Sedan in 1870. Its mission was to defend the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer during the Third Republic, the era when the deep-water port was established. Firing exercises were conducted there during World War I, at a time when the port of Boulogne served as a rear base for transporting the “Tommies.” It was renovated by the French Navy in 1936–1938 before being incorporated into the Atlantic Wall during World War II. It remained a military site until 1999 and is now owned by the Conservatoire du littoral, which has entrusted its management to the Association Fort de la Crèche, which organizes guided tours and various events. For information on public opening hours and admission fees, visit the association’s website.