About Calais
Calais, a vibrant port city in northern France, sits on the shores of the English Channel, directly across from the UK. Known for its strategic location, it has a rich history shaped by maritime trade, cultural exchange, and historical events. The city’s blend of French and British influences is evident in its architecture and atmosphere. Calais is also a gateway for travelers crossing the channel, offering a unique mix of coastal charm, history, and modern vibrancy.
6 Tourist Attractions to Enjoy in Calais
The Places To Visit In Calais You Must Explore
1. Les Bourgeois de Calais – Monument
Les Bourgeois de Calais, also known as The Burghers of Calais, is a poignant monument created by the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin. It commemorates a heroic episode from the Hundred Years’ War when six citizens of Calais volunteered to surrender their lives in exchange for the city’s freedom from an English siege in 1347. This powerful sculpture is an iconic symbol of sacrifice and civic duty.
Location:
The monument is located in the city’s heart at Place d’Armes, near the Calais Town Hall.
Key Attractions:
- Rodin’s Masterpiece: The emotional and life-size bronze sculpture of the six burghers, each depicted in a moment of solemn sacrifice, is a must-see for art lovers.
- Historical Significance: The monument marks a pivotal event in Calais’ history, drawing visitors interested in the city’s medieval past and its role during the Hundred Years’ War.
- Surrounding Square: The area around the monument is a peaceful public space, perfect for reflecting and enjoying the views of the surrounding architecture.
Things to Do:
- Admire Rodin’s Sculpture: Take your time admiring the monument’s many figures and consider the historical significance of the occasion each one symbolizes.
- Explore Place d’Armes: Walk around the charming square, which is home to other historical landmarks and offers a sense of the city’s past.
- Visit the Calais Town Hall: Located nearby, the Town Hall is a beautiful building featuring a belfry and stunning architecture. It provides further insight into the city’s rich history.
2. Calais Beach – Beach
Calais Beach (Plage de Calais) is a popular coastal destination in the city’s heart. It offers a relaxing escape with stunning views of the English Channel. The beach features long stretches of golden sand and attracts visitors year-round for leisurely walks, sunbathing, and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Calais Beach is popular among residents and visitors looking for peace and coastal enjoyment because of its ideal fusion of accessible services and natural beauty.
Location:
Calais Beach is along the seafront in Calais, France. It is easily accessible from the city center and close to the port area.
Key Attractions:
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the English Channel, and you may spot ferries traveling between France and the UK.
- The Promenade: The Promenade is a lovely walking path along the beach. It is ideal for a stroll while taking in breathtaking views of the sea, the expansive coastline, and the charming surroundings.
- Nearby Restaurants and Cafes: Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at beachfront eateries offering panoramic beach and sea views.
Things to Do:
- Relax on the Sand: Spend sunbathing, picnicking, or enjoying the peaceful surroundings along the vast sandy shore.
- Walk or Bike Along the Seafront: Take a stroll or bike ride along the promenade, which stretches the length of the beach and offers scenic views.
- Water Sports and Activities: Depending on the season, try various water activities, such as windsurfing, sailing, or beach volleyball, which are popular on the beach.
3. Dragon’s Company – Tourist Attraction
Dragon’s Company (Compagnie des Dragons) is Calais’s unique and engaging historical experience. It transports visitors to the medieval era, focusing on the fascinating story of the town’s history, legends, and knights. The attraction brings to life the ancient traditions and epic tales associated with the region, featuring interactive exhibits, reenactments, and a collection of historical artifacts. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in Calais’s medieval heritage.
Location:
Dragon’s Company is near the heart of Calais, often close to the town’s leading historical sites, and easily accessible for tourists exploring the city.
Key Attractions:
- Medieval Reenactments: The attraction offers dramatic reenactments of medieval battles and daily life, immersing visitors in the era’s atmosphere.
- The Mechanical Dragon: The main highlight of Dragon’s Company is the massive, lifelike mechanical dragon visitors can observe in action. The dragon can move, breathe fire, and roar, making it a truly captivating sight.
- The Dragon’s Legend: The mythical dragon symbolizes Calais’ medieval past and is central to the attraction. Storytellers and interactive exhibits bring the dragon’s legend to life.
Things to Do:
- Watch Live Performances: Enjoy the immersive medieval reenactments and theatrical performances that transport you back in time.
- Explore the Exhibits: Delve into the fascinating historical displays and learn about the life and times of Calais in the Middle Ages.
- Engage with Costumed Guides: Take a guided tour with the costumed characters who bring the history and legends of Calais to life, making for an engaging and educational experience.
4. City of Lace and Fashion – Museum
The City of Lace and Fashion Museum (Musée de la Dentelle et de la Mode) in Calais is a unique cultural institution dedicated to lace-making and the region’s history of fashion. The museum celebrates Calais’ long-standing reputation as a hub for lace production, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and the evolution of fashion over the centuries. Visitors can explore the artistry of lace, its impact on the local economy, and the creative influences that shaped the fashion industry in the region.
Location:
The museum is located in the heart of Calais, near the town center, and easily accessible from other significant landmarks.
Key Attractions:
- Lace Collections: The museum features an impressive collection of lacework, including pieces from the 19th century to contemporary designs, offering an in-depth look at this intricate craft that has defined Calais’ heritage.
- Historical Context of Lace: Explore exhibits detailing the economic and social impact of lace-making in Calais, revealing how this craft shaped the local community and its role in the international textile trade.
- Interactive Displays: Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits demonstrating the lace-making process and its importance to the local culture and economy.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Lace Exhibits: Discover the delicate artistry of lace through centuries-old designs and modern creations, learning about the techniques and history behind them.
- Watch Lace-Making Demonstrations: Observe skilled artisans as they demonstrate traditional lace-making methods, providing insight into the time-honored craft.
- Admire Fashion History: The museum’s fashion displays allow you to explore iconic clothing pieces from different eras and learn how lace and fashion have intertwined throughout history.
5. Museum of Fine Arts in Calais – Art Museum
The Museum of Fine Arts in Calais (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Calais) is a prominent cultural destination showcasing an impressive collection of artworks spanning several centuries. Thanks to its various paintings, sculptures, and antiques, the museum offers an intriguing look into European art, concentrating on the 19th and 20th centuries. It provides a peaceful and enlightening experience in the center of Calais and is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Location:
The museum is in Calais’s city center, making exploring the town’s cultural and historical sites easy.
Key Attractions:
- European Paintings: The museum houses works from renowned European artists, particularly from the 19th and 20th centuries, focusing on the French school of painting.
- Sculptures: The museum complements its painting exhibits with a fine collection of sculptures, including works by artists who have shaped French art history.
- Temporary Exhibitions: The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists or specific art movements, ensuring there is always something new.
Things to Do:
- Admire Classical and New Art: Discover the extensive collection of European sculptures and paintings, ranging from new art innovations to classical treasures.
- Attend Temporary Exhibitions: Visit the rotating exhibitions to experience cutting-edge art and discover new artists or themes in the art world.
- Relax in the Museum’s Gardens: The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful spot for visitors to reflect on the artwork they’ve viewed.
6. Tour du Guet – Historical Landmark
Tour du Guet is a historic landmark in Calais, offering a glimpse into the city’s past as a fortified town. Initially built in the 13th century, this tower was a watchtower and a defensive structure designed to protect Calais from potential threats. Today, it is a monument to the city’s medieval heritage, providing visitors with a historical and scenic experience.
Location:
The Tour du Guet is conveniently located near the town center in Calais, making it accessible for visitors to take in the city’s historical monuments.
Key Attractions:
- Medieval Architecture: The tower’s well-preserved architecture offers a fascinating example of medieval military design, giving insight into the city’s history and the importance of defense during the medieval era.
- Panoramic Views: From the top of the tower, visitors enjoy stunning views of the city, the surrounding coastline, and the English Channel.
- Historical Significance: As one of the few remaining structures from Calais’ medieval fortifications, the Tour du Guet provides a deeper understanding of the city’s defense systems and role in French and English history.
Things to Do:
- Climb to the Top: Ascend the tower for panoramic views of Calais, its harbor, and the surrounding landscape, offering great photo opportunities.
- Learn About Calais’ History: Visitors can examine the tower’s role through informative displays or a guided tour that explains its function as a lookout and defensive position.
- Explore the Surrounding Area: After visiting the tower, enjoy the nearby historical landmarks and charming streets of Calais, which offer a mix of medieval and modern architecture.
Culinary Delights
With its coastal location and French culinary heritage, Calais offers a variety of delicious dishes and flavors that showcase the region’s history and proximity to France and England. Here are some of the culinary delights of Calais:
- Moules-Frites (Mussels with Fries): A classic regional dish, moules-frites feature mussels cooked in various ways, often in white wine, garlic, and herbs, served with crispy golden fries. This dish is popular along the northern coast of France, and many restaurants in Calais offer their take on this flavorful, satisfying meal.
- Calais Fish and Seafood: Given its proximity to the English Channel, fresh fish and seafood are key ingredients in Calais cuisine. You can savor local fish dishes such as cod, sole, or haddock, often prepared simply with butter and herbs to highlight their natural flavors. Oysters, prawns, and crabs are also commonly enjoyed in the area.
- Potjevleesch: This traditional dish from the northern regions of France is particularly popular in Calais. Potjevleesch is a cold terrine made with a mix of meats such as chicken, rabbit, and pork cooked in their gelatinous stock. It’s typically served with crusty bread and pickles, offering a delicious taste of the region’s rustic, hearty flavors.
- Chocolates and Sweets: Calais is known for its proximity to Belgium, and its chocolatiers create rich and exquisite Belgian-style chocolates. Visitors can indulge in pralines, truffles, and other artisan confections. Local pastries such as brioche and tarte au sucre (sugar tart) are also popular.
- Calais Beer (Bière de Calais): The region has a thriving beer culture, and Bière de Calais is a specialty brewed in the area. Often crafted with local ingredients, this beer pairs wonderfully with the region’s seafood and meat dishes. You can sample these beers at local pubs or specialty bars, where a range of regional brews are available.
- Fromage (Cheese): Northern France is known for its cheese, and Calais offers a variety of French cheeses, such as Maroilles, a strong-smelling cheese from nearby northern France. You’ll also find cheeses like Brie and Camembert, commonly enjoyed with fresh bread and fruit.
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