The belfry terrace is 42 metres above the ground and offers views of the Flanders hills, the Lys Valley, the spoil heaps of the mining basin, and Lille and its surrounding area. The viewpoint combines a sweeping panorama with the history of a local landmark. If you are planning a visit, check the latest access information, as access conditions may change.
Belfry, Church and History
The belfry of Armentières was rebuilt after 1918 by Louis-Marie Cordonnier in the Flemish Renaissance style. The belfry of the town hall is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Belfries of Belgium and France”; it is listed there in France under reference number 943-033. This landmark brings together the tangible history of its reconstruction and a UNESCO designation spanning Belgium and France.
The existence of the Church of Saint-Vaast in Armentières has been documented since the 9th century. The church was rebuilt in the Gothic style and inaugurated in September 1929. The city's history thus brings together different points in time: the early history of Saint-Vaast and the reconstruction of the belfry after 1918.
The Musée de l’Histoire de l’UACA displays several hundred different objects, including historical artefacts, weapons and personal belongings that document the lives of soldiers during the First World War. A memorial wall covered with numerous photographs commemorates British soldiers who fell in Armentières and the surrounding area. The collection and memorial wall have different focuses: the objects illustrate soldiers’ lives, while the wall commemorates those who fell. As visiting arrangements may change, check the latest visitor information when planning your visit.
Culture, Walking Tour and Local Tradition
“La belle boucle #1” is a playful, artistic route that can be followed year-round and takes in a range of cultural, creative and sporting venues. As point of interest number 6, the route includes the “Promenade du patrimoine”. If you are planning to follow the route, you can use this named stop as a guide; some route details may be updated, so it is worth checking the latest route description before setting out.
Le Vivat presents theatre, dance, music, circus, comedy, puppetry and performances for young audiences in each season. The programme changes seasonally. If you would like a particular genre to shape your stay, plan around the relevant season and its programme.
The Fête des Nieulles is considered the oldest and most characteristic festival in Armentières. The round biscuits known as “les Nieulles” are an integral part of this traditional festival. The local festive tradition therefore includes both a named festival and a specific baked treat.
Sport, Relaxation and Choosing a Hotel
Calyssia has a 25-metre sports pool with six lanes, a leisure pool with a 90-metre revolving slide, and a relaxation area with two saunas and a spa. Aquagym activities for different ability levels are also available. The pools, slide and relaxation area offer different experiences; check the latest operating conditions before your visit.
When choosing a hotel in Armentières, the purpose of your trip can be a useful starting point: architecture and views, the First World War museum, a seasonal programme at Le Vivat or Calyssia each appeal to different interests.
Discover more destinations: Feignies, Honnecourt-Sur-Escaut, Dourlers, Eppe-Sauvage, Drincham, Tilloy-Lez-Marchiennes, Lécluse, Prisches
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