A striking introduction to Landrethun-Le-Nord is its church-building history: the former church, dating from the early 18th century, was destroyed by bombs during the Second World War; today’s Saint-Martin Church was built between 1958 and 1961.
Saint-Martin: a post-war church
The present-day church was built to plans by Joseph Philippe, a student of Dom Bellot. Red facing brick, a slate roof, a covered porch and a detached campanile distinguish the building. A campanile is a freestanding bell tower; this form differs from a tower incorporated directly into the church building. The materials, roof and independent position of the tower give the church a clearly recognizable architectural profile. Together with the story of the destroyed predecessor, the building thus tells of two distinct chapters: the town’s earlier history and its post-war reconstruction.
Danse des Neuches and Fontaine des Neuches
The Danse des Neuches is a stone circle in Landrethun-le-Nord that has long occupied archaeologists and historians. The stones are on an enclosed private property, but can be seen from Rue des Noces. Visibility and access are not the same thing: before visiting, check what access is currently available rather than assuming that a view from the road means you are allowed to enter.
The Fontaine des Neuches is a spring associated with the Neuches Stones. It lies just over 150 metres from the stones, on the left-hand side of the road towards Ferques, and is freely accessible from the road. Here too, it is advisable to check current access arrangements before visiting. Local tradition links a particular tale to the spring: on the night before Midsummer’s Day in summer, at precisely midnight, it could offer true believers an excellent drink. They had to be sober and in a state of grace. This is part of local folklore, not a drink available today.
Via Francigena and Plan d’eau
The Chemin des Poissonniers is part of the GR145 “Via Francigena”. This gives the route a direct connection to Landrethun-le-Nord and adds a distinct theme for travellers interested in the Via Francigena to the town’s history.
The Plan d’eau and its adjoining facilities can be reserved through Landrethun-le-Nord town hall, with an appointment arranged with the person responsible. Ask there about the current procedure, as reservation arrangements may change. As part of a reservation, access to the 3,700 m² pool may be provided under the supervision of a representative of ADAL Pêche. Fishing sessions can also be arranged with ADAL Pêche for an additional charge. Access to the pool and fishing are separate options, each of which must be arranged individually.
Guided visits at the Forteresse de Mimoyecques
The hillside at the Forteresse de Mimoyecques is privately owned and can only be explored as part of a guided visit. These are organised by the Communauté de communes de La terre des 2 caps or the Conservatoire. As visit arrangements may change, check with the organisers in charge beforehand. This makes it possible to plan your visit appropriately, without confusing it with the Neuches Stones, which are visible from the road, or the Plan d’eau, which can be reserved through the town hall.
Discover more destinations: Lebiez, Halinghen, Marconne, Wail, Chériennes, Audembert, Annay, Berck
For the broader travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.
