Lécluse offers a range of themes to explore: local history dating back to the 17th century, religious buildings, local traditions, and a landscape of ponds and marshes. When planning your visit, you can focus on culture, nature watching or regional produce.

Church and traces of local history

The church of Saint-Vaast stands almost on the site of the former Château de Lécluse, which was completely destroyed in the 17th century. The church was built much later: construction took six years, from 1925 to 1931. Saint-Vaast has a nave and two aisles, each lit by five openings. The site thus points to the area's earlier history, while the building dates from a later period.

Another landmark is the keystone of Lécluse. Until the 17th century, it adorned the chapel of the Maladrerie on the outskirts of the village, towards Ecourt-Saint-Quentin. The coats of arms depicted in relief on the keystone belong to Antoine de Croy, Lord of Sempy. Today, the keystone is on the village square between the nursery and the municipal offices. As its display may change, it is advisable to check the current arrangement before visiting.

Religious sites, legend and literature

The Grotte de Lourdes was built in 1878 by Madame Feugey-Labalette in gratitude for the healing of a child. It is considered the oldest replica of the Lourdes grotto in the Douaisis area. It predates the work on Saint-Vaast, which began in 1925. For directions, the grotto is on Rue du Bois, opposite the cemetery and near the stadium.

La Pierre du Diable is also associated with a local tradition. The stone is near the road to Etaing. According to legend, the devil threw it after a pact fell through: he was supposed to rebuild a barn before the rooster crowed. This tale gives the stone its own legendary story alongside the village's specific historical landmarks.

A literary connection leads to Paul Verlaine. Some poems in his 1869 collection Fêtes galantes seem to have been inspired by the marshes of Lécluse and their surroundings; these include Promenade sentimentale. For literature enthusiasts, this possible connection adds a specific poem title to the nature perspective.

Ponds, wildlife watching and local produce

The Circuit autour des marais runs alongside the ponds of Lécluse. Among the marshes and footbridges, you can spot many species of wildlife along the route. The landscape and wildlife watching go hand in hand, while the ponds give the route a clear theme. As paths and access conditions may change, check the current route and access arrangements before setting out.

Another focus is the produce from Ferme Tricart. The farm sells smoked garlic from Arleux, as well as yellow and red onions and shallots. Sales at the farm are seasonal, which is worth bearing in mind when planning. Alongside architectural history and nature, regional produce is another theme to explore during a stay in Lécluse.

Esquelbecq, Vicq, Socx, Amfroipret, Douchy-Les-Mines, Marchiennes, Wasquehal, Romeries

For the general travel overview: Nord.