The foreign city that is
closest to the British mainland has been growing in popularity over the past few years. Named European Capital of Culture in 2004 (a lot of cash was invested in the rejuvenation of the city for the occasion), this northern town today attracts tourists who come for its
Flemish ambience, its
excellent museums,
great food and
beer, and of course the world renowned
Grande Braderie (Europe’s biggest flea market).
Lille has had a
stormy history (it has been besieged no fewer than 11 times). In fact, the city only
became definitely part of France just over 300 years ago.
The town, whose name is derived from the French
l’île (‘the island’), thus named because it was situated on an island in the Deûle River, started life as a
small village founded by the Flemish in about 1030. Before the end of the 11th century, the village had grown into a
town and had been
fortified by Count Baldwin IV of Flanders. Before the end of the century, it became a
leading textile producer.
The
capital of Flanders during the
Middle Ages, Lille was
given to
France by the Flanders government in 1312. Subsequently, it fell into
various hands (including Austrian and Spanish ones), before being reclaimed, in 1667, by
Louis XIV, who made it a
showplace of
French power and
glory. In 1708, Lille was captured again by Eugene, Prince of Savoy, in collaboration with the English under the Duke of Marlborough. It was restored to France in 1713 by the
Peace of Utrecht. Lille was both damaged and occupied by the
Germans in both World Wars.
Today Lille (or
Ryssel in Flemish) is the most important city in northern France, and the
fourth biggest overall in the country. It has a very
young population (including many students), and a
vibrant cultural scene. The Eurostar
connection with London has made it easier than ever to access from the UK.
Lille is
not blessed with ideal weather, but even when it’s cold or rainy outside, it’s always warm and welcoming in the numerous
estaminets (local take on bar/tavern).
Summer is the best time to visit.
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The Columbus World Travel Guide has been published for 26 years and is sold in over 90 countries worldwide.
Word Travels is a comprehensive travel guide covering hundreds of cities and holiday resorts in more than 125 countries.
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