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Valenciennes

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

Rightly nicknamed the "Athens of the North" because of its incredible historical intellectual and artistic vibrancy, Valenciennes is a magnificent gem of the Haut-Rhin region, located in the Nord department. Rich in a glorious industrial past, the city has transformed into a modern and bold metropolis, where traditional red brick stands alongside steel and urban art. A cradle of world-renowned painters and sculptors, Valenciennes reveals a warm atmosphere at every turn, typical of Northern hospitality.

The Place d'Armes and the architectural renewal

Completely rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, Valenciennes' main square is a testament to the harmonious blend of ancient history and modernity.

The Town Hall and its preserved façade: While much of the town hall had to be rebuilt, its magnificent 19th-century façade was preserved. Adorned with monumental sculptures by local artist Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, it symbolizes Valenciennes' resilience and cultural grandeur.

The Valenciennes Needle: Standing proudly on the Place d'Armes, this monumental 45-meter-high sculpture is covered with thousands of engraved words. It was erected on the exact site of the city's former medieval belfry, which tragically collapsed in 1840.

The ambiance of the terraces and shopping: The spacious and airy square is lined with modern cafés and boutiques. It's the ideal place to sit on the terrace and observe the hustle and bustle of the city in the shade of contemporary architectural lines.

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.
Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.
Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

The Athens of the North — Museums and breeding ground for great geniuses

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

Valenciennes takes pride in its exceptional artistic tradition. It is the birthplace of giants of European art history such as Antoine Watteau and Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux.

The Museum of Fine Arts: A veritable regional Louvre, this palace of the arts houses a remarkable collection spanning from the Middle Ages to modern art. It particularly showcases Flemish Baroque masters (such as Rubens and Jordaens) and boasts a spectacular room dedicated to the expressive plaster and bronze sculptures of Carpeaux. (Note: After extensive modernization work, the museum will reopen in 2026, offering an even more immersive experience.)

The Jardin des Prix de Rome: The city has sent so many artists to win the prestigious Prix de Rome that an urban park pays tribute to them. Strolling through it, visitors discover numerous reproductions of sculptures, engravings, and artistic stelae amidst the flowerbeds.

The Jesuit Library: Located in the former Jesuit college, this 18th-century library boasts immense carved wooden shelves housing thousands of precious manuscripts and ancient tomes, creating an atmosphere worthy of the greatest fantasy tales.

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

Sacred Stroll, Traditions and Secrets of Old Valenciennes

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut.

Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008.

The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades.

The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

Gastronomy and generous flavors of the Valenciennes region

In Valenciennes, the welcome extends to the plate as well, with a warm, flavorful cuisine deeply rooted in local history.

The Tongue of Lucullus: This is the city's unmissable gastronomic gem. This refined specialty consists of alternating thin slices of smoked beef tongue and layers of duck foie gras. Served as an appetizer, it delights even the most discerning palates.

The Chocolate Heart of Valenciennes: For those with a sweet tooth, this treat is a delight. It's a handcrafted chocolate confection combining a crispy praline and a delicate nougatine, all molded into a heart shape.

Flemish Carbonnade and Craft Beer: The traditional pubs and breweries around Place Saint-Nicolas expertly prepare this beef stew, simmered for hours in a sauce made with local beer and gingerbread. It pairs perfectly with the copper-colored, aged beers of Hainaut.

Venturing away from the main modern thoroughfares, you'll find yourself immersed in a network of picturesque cobbled streets that have preserved all the medieval charm of the County of Hainaut. Saint-Géry Church: The oldest religious building in the city (13th century), this Gothic church impresses with the elegance of its nave and the soft, diffused light. Its massive pillars of Hainaut blue stone bear witness to the city's medieval roots. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Cord: This majestic 19th-century neo-Gothic sanctuary is intimately linked to Valenciennes' greatest tradition: the Tour du Saint-Cordon (Pilgrimage of the Holy Cord). Every September, tens of thousands of pilgrims walk a 14-kilometer procession around the city to commemorate the miracle that ended the plague in 1008. The Spanish House: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this rare 16th-century half-timbered building recalls the period when the region was under Spanish rule (the Spanish Netherlands). It boasts superb, perfectly restored corbelled facades. The Dodenne Tower: The only major remaining vestige of the old medieval fortified walls, dismantled in the 19th century, this massive brick and stone watchtower stands peacefully overlooking a branch of the Scheldt River.

Green lungs and escapes along the water

Far from the austere image of former mining towns, Valenciennes is a particularly green urban area, surrounded by water and vast national forests.

The Parc de la Rhônelle: Designed in the early 20th century by landscape architect Louis Martinet, this magnificent English-style urban park is laid out around a meandering river, waterfalls, and remarkable centuries-old trees. It's the perfect place for a romantic stroll among the sculptures by various artists.

The Étang du Vignoble (Vineyard Pond): This vast body of water, covering more than 50 hectares and located on the edge of the city center, is a paradise for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can relax on large wooden jetties, perfect for observing migratory birds or enjoying sailing and canoeing.

The Mare à Goriaux and the Forêt de Raismes (Raismes Forest): A few kilometers to the north, the national forest offers extensive hiking trails. La Mare à Goriaux, a pond born from the mining subsidence of the past, is today classified as an ornithological reserve of striking wild beauty, nestled at the foot of the old slag heaps.

Conclusion

Valenciennes is a surprising destination that shatters all preconceptions. Proudly known as the Athens of the North, it has preserved the refinement and elegance of its artistic genius while infusing its cobbled squares with a modern and festive energy. Whether you choose to come to marvel at the mystical shelves of its Jesuit library, to savor a slice of Lucullus cheese at a cozy bistro, or to stroll along the banks of the Étang du Vignoble (Vineyard Pond), Valenciennes stands out as a vibrant, cultural, and human stopover, essential for understanding the richness and generosity of the Hauts-de-France region.

Valenciennes Tourist Office

Information Regarding Visuals: This website uses computer-generated images and illustrations created by artificial intelligence for atmospheric and stylistic purposes. These representations are not actual photographs and are strictly non-binding.

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