Arras brings together architectural history, underground sites and nature-themed attractions in different ways. The Belfry and the Squares highlight architecture and the city’s civic history; the Boves and Wellington Quarry represent two distinct sites beneath the city. The Citadel brings bastions, moats and woodland into the picture, while Cité Nature combines science, exhibitions and gardens. You can shape your stay around whether you are most interested in architecture, the First World War, walks in green spaces or scientific culture.
The Belfry and Squares: architecture in Arras
The Belfry of Arras was built between 1463 and 1554 and stands 75 metres tall; it symbolises the city’s civic freedoms. After being destroyed by German artillery in October 1914, it was faithfully rebuilt under the direction of architect Pierre Paquet between 1924 and 1932. Access is by lift, followed by around 40 steps. Advance booking is not required. As access details may change, check the latest information before your visit.
The Squares of Arras also have their own architectural character: they are defined by 155 façades with 345 columns, and the houses there are listed as historic monuments. Alongside the single, 75-metre tower, this urban space, shaped by columns and façades, offers another architectural landmark.
Underground sites and the history of the First World War
The Boves of Arras are former chalk quarries that form an underground labyrinth 12 metres below the surface. Wellington Quarry lies 20 metres beneath the streets of Arras and gives visitors a moving insight into the history of the First World War. The visit begins with a descent 20 metres underground in a glass lift; the underground galleries are explored with a guide and an audio guide. The two sites therefore differ in their focus: the Boves labyrinth reflects their former use as chalk quarries, while the First World War is at the heart of Wellington Quarry. As the Wellington Quarry visit format may change, check the latest information in advance.
Citadel of Arras: bastions, woodland and viewpoints
The Citadel of Arras was built by Vauban in the 17th century and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008. It covers 72 hectares, including 45 hectares of woodland and 12 hectares within the walls. Walking routes run along the bastions, beside the moats and through the woodland; there are also six notable viewpoints. The grounds are used by walkers, joggers and cyclists. The 45 hectares of woodland show that green spaces account for a large part of the area described, alongside the fortifications.
Cité Nature: science and gardens
Cité Nature is a centre for scientific culture in a former lamp factory belonging to a mine. It offers workshops and exhibitions on agriculture, nature and food. Its gardens include a vegetable garden, an orchard and a rose garden. There are also 650 Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier vines, as well as beds of aquatic, medicinal and exotic plants. Cité Nature thus combines a scientific exhibition programme with a variety of garden and plant themes.
Discover more destinations: Le Ponchel, Vincly, Capelle-Lès-Hesdin, Fampoux, Audruicq, Lestrem, Tramecourt, Fauquembergues.
For the broader travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.
