Lille is culturally-rich and festive
Rich in Culture :
Lille became a French city only after passing through Flemish, Burgundian and Spanish hands. Such a diverse past has made Lille the architecturally stunning and culturally rich city that it is today. Known for trade in the Middle Ages, the city became a citadel under Louis XIV, turned industrial in the 19th century and became ambitious and entrepreneurial in the 20th. Today, Lille respects its eclectic and impressive past, while acting as an innovative, dynamic, and surprising city.
Named European capital of culture in 2004, Lille now is recognized as a leader in the field of culture. From museums and theaters to ballets and concerts, culture is a part of daily life.
Historical monuments around the city speak to Lille’s diverse past. Majestic belfries (classified as UNESCO heritage sites), war monuments, or hidden secrets scattered about town are reason enough to explore this remarkable city known for its art and history.
Far from being an exhaustive list of Lille’s historical and cultural gems, here are some of the most visited sites: the Grand’Place (otherwise known as the Place Général de Gaulle, Lille’s main square pays homage to Charles de Gaulle, who was born in Lille); The Vieille Bourse (Lille’s old stock exchange building, built in the 17th century, where today used booksellers keep stands and from July-September, Tango dancers meet); the 19th century villas or maisons de plaisance lining Lambersart’s gorgeous tree-lined avenue de l’Hippodrome. Greater Lille has over 20 museums including the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts museum), the Musée de la Piscine in Roubaix, the l’Hospice Comtesse in Lille, and the Hospice d’Havré in Tourcoing, just to name a few.
Many reasons to celebrate:
In Lille, good times are never too hard to find, regardless of the season. Whether it be the larger-than-life annual braderie (antique and flea market) in September, festive carnivals, the international soup festival, shows or just sharing a locally-brewed beer with friends, you’ll find plenty of reasons to join in on the fun. And for night owls, Lille’s night clubs and bars are always packed into the wee hours.
Lille 2004 European Culture Capital put the city in high celebratory gear, Lille 3000 transformed it into Bollywood, and in 2009, Lille became the new capital of Central and Eastern Europe with Europe XXL.
Download the 2009 Lille Tourist Office event calendar
Plus d’infos :
www.lilletourism.com
Download the cultural and event calendar.
www.lillelanuit.fr