Caudry can be explored through three very different themes: the Basilica of Sainte-Maxellende, lace-making and a tree-filled parkland. This range is helpful when planning a visit, as it combines cultural attractions with outdoor activities. The offerings range from architectural and local history to machine demonstrations, walks and fishing.
Basilica of Sainte-Maxellende: Dedication and Building History
The Basilique Sainte-Maxellende de Caudry is dedicated to Sainte Maxellende, a young woman from Caudry who was martyred by Harduin d’Amerval in the 7th century. The Gothic building was constructed between 1887 and 1890 to plans by the Lille architect Louis Cordonnier. The dedication thus refers to a saint from the 7th century, while the building’s history dates to the late 19th century. This distinction in time helps separate the story of Sainte Maxellende from the construction of the basilica. The basilica also houses the 14th-century reliquary of Sainte Maxellende, which is classified as a Monument historique. The dedication, Gothic architecture and classified reliquary offer different points of interest for exploring the building.
Lace-making at the Musée des Dentelles et Broderies
The Musée des Dentelles et Broderies focuses on Caudry’s lace industry. A video on the ground floor explains its history and techniques. During a workshop visit, machines illustrate the various stages of lace-making; a professional lacemaker also demonstrates a working Leavers machine. Each offering has a different focus: the video provides context on history and techniques, the machines show the individual production stages, and the demonstration focuses on a specific machine in operation. In this way, lace can be explored through its local industrial history, manufacturing techniques and production process.
Local History at the Espace de Vie Historique André Flament
The Espace de Vie Historique André Flament offers a different focus. It recreates a street with shops, cobblestones and pavements modeled on those of the 1930s. The history of Caudry and related themes are also presented there through postcards, photographs and newspapers. The reconstructed street and the documents therefore convey different aspects of the past: a recreated street scene from a particular era and a historical account using visual and printed materials. From the Musée de la dentelle, reach the Espace by crossing Place des Mantilles. An elevator provides access to the third floor.
Walks, Wildlife and Fishing at Val du Riot
The Base de Loisirs du Val du Riot complements the cultural attractions with outdoor activities. It includes a 12-hectare, tree-filled park where numerous animals live permanently or stay temporarily. The Base offers space for walks and other outdoor activities. Three ponds also provide opportunities for fishing. The outdoor offerings are therefore easy to distinguish: walks and other activities take you outside, while the three ponds are specifically designated for fishing. Anyone choosing Caudry for its culture and local history can also consider its distinct nature and leisure area.
Discover more destinations: Cuincy, Prouvy, Méteren, La Madeleine, Englos, Bousignies-Sur-Roc, Tourcoing, Armentières.
For the broader travel overview: Nord.
