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Nord Pas de Calais, France

Make the most of your time in Nord Pas de Calais, use the information provided on this web site by clicking on the links to plan your visit.

The Nord Pas de Calais region is the northernmost sub-division in France and is a major connection point with the United Kingdom. The region has been embroiled in many wars and battles over the years due to its strategic position and is indeed one of Europe’s most fought-over pieces of land, most notably during the First and Second World Wars during the 20th century. Today, with the Channel Tunnel and major port in Calais on the northern tip, Nord Pas de Calais is a much passed-through and visited region.

There are some 650 military cemeteries placed throughout Nord Pas de Calais, paying testament to the horrors of the battles and warfare that have taken place over the years. First World War trenches were dug in abundance through this part of the country and led to a style of warfare which claimed the lives of many. In the north-east of the region meanwhile is the town of Dunkerque which was made famous as the last part of France to be liberated during the Second World War.

To the north of this small French department is the English Channel and more specifically the Straights of Dover, the destination for many boats travelling from Calais. To the east the region borders Belgium, while to its south is Picardie, a region which separates Nord Pas de Calais from Paris and the Ile-de-France. Nord Pas de Calais is made up of two sub-divisions – namely Nord and Pas de Calais, which together are home to four million inhabitants. This makes the compartment the fourth largest in the country despite being one of the smallest by area. The region’s capital meanwhile is Lille which is to be found on the border with Belgium.

The most famous person born in Nord Pas de Calais is undoubtedly former President Charles de Gaulle who led the country from 1959 through to 1969. It is the nationalist principles which de Gaulle enforced which have led to the country being based primarily around the French language. Even still, minority languages remain in use even if limitedly so, while there is a rich diversity of ethnicity thanks to a long period of immigration.

The region has experienced a recent growth in tourism which has focused around Lille in particular. Inevitably, with its convenient transport links, the rail and water access has led to a boost for the economy too. There are several museums dotted around the region which are frequented by many visitors, while the 38 belfries act as ideal viewpoints and are often part of picturesque buildings. Forests and other open spaces are suitable for walking and outdoor activities; there is the sizeable Parc Naturel Regional Nord Pas de Calais which is close to the Belgian border. Finally, the Dunkerque Carnival takes place each year throughout the month of February and serves to liven up the town with song, dance and other cultural activities.
 

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