Beauvais
Welcome to Beauvais, a jewel of the Oise region where Gothic grandeur meets the gentle Picard lifestyle. Located just 1.5 hours from Paris, this city of Art and History surprises with its contrasts, between the wounds of the past and architectural resurrection.
Saint Peter's Cathedral: The Unfinished Giant
A true defiance of gravity, Beauvais Cathedral is a work of superlatives that leaves no one unmoved.
The world's highest choir: With a vault reaching 48.50 meters, it surpasses all its rivals. Here, one experiences a unique and breathtaking sense of ascent.
The Astronomical Clock: A 19th-century masterpiece of precision composed of 90,000 parts. It comes to life during sound and light shows that depict the Last Judgment.
The Broken Destiny: Lacking a nave (never built after several collapses), it presents an unusual silhouette, flanked by the "Basse-Œuvre," a 10th-century Carolingian church that appears minuscule beside it.
The MUDO: Art at the heart of the Palace
Housed in the former palace of the Bishop-Counts, the MUDO (Musée de l'Oise) is a remarkable historical gem.
Medieval Architecture: Admire the 14th-century watchtowers and the magnificent timber frame of the palace.
The Collections: The museum houses works ranging from Antiquity to the 20th century, with a particular focus on the 19th century and the landscapes of Thomas Couture.
The Prefecture Garden: Adjacent to the museum, this park offers a verdant respite, perfect for contemplating the still-visible Gallo-Roman ramparts.
Nature Getaways: Canada's Water Body
Just minutes from the city center, Beauvais transforms into a green oasis for outdoor enthusiasts.
Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, or supervised swimming in the summer on this vast 45-hectare lake.
Relaxation and Sport: A 3-km trail circles the lake, perfect for joggers, cyclists, or families seeking tranquility.
Preserved Ecosystem: Observe the local wildlife in the surrounding wooded areas, a true green lung for the city.
Tapestry: A Royal Craft
Beauvais is world-renowned for its carpet and tapestry manufactory, a jewel of French industrial and artistic heritage.
The National Manufactory: Still in operation, it creates exceptional pieces for national palaces. The low-warp tapestry technique is perpetuated here.
The Quadrilateral: Located next to the cathedral, this contemporary art center offers temporary exhibitions that explore the dialogue between historical textiles and modern creation.
Colbert's Legacy: Discover how, under Louis XIV, the city became one of the most prestigious production centers in Europe.
A stroll through "Old Beauvais"
Despite the bombings of 1940, some neighborhoods have retained their old-world charm, offering a medieval village atmosphere.
The Gréber House: A marvel of Art Nouveau, decorated with colorful ceramics, testifying to the importance of pottery in the region.
Saint-Étienne Church: A fascinating blend of Romanesque and Flamboyant Gothic styles, famous for its deep blue Jesse Tree stained-glass windows.
Half-Timbered Streets: Lose yourself in Rue du 27-Juin to admire the half-timbered houses that have stood the test of time.
Conclusion
Beauvais is a city of resilience and audacity. From the spiritual ascent beneath the vaults of its cathedral to the artisanal precision of its tapestry weavers, it offers a complete sensory journey. Whether you are passionate about medieval architecture or love bucolic walks, the capital of the Oise department promises a stopover rich in emotions and discoveries.
Beauvais & Beauvaisis Tourist Office
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