Welcome to our platform dedicated to the discovery of the extramuro cities of the Opal Coast.
Here we invite you to explore the diversity of fortification cities located outside these
ancient walls. Each city has its own personality, history and distinct charm, ready
to be discovered.
Dragon exit de Calais (Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm)
Fest du Hareng de la Côte d'Opale (Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 November 2023)
In Calais, there are buildings dating from the 16th century to the
dating from the 12th century. The city was previously the prey of conflicts between France
and England, and so today there are different forts like Fort Nieulay,
Risban, and the citadel that lasted until today. We also find the church
Notre-Dame, built in 1163, which was renovated in 2016 and finally the Watchtower damaged
during the Second World War and repaired in 2022.
Aire-sur-la-lys
restaurant :
LE MARDYCK(schedule: Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/
Sunday 1pm–3pm,Friday 1pm–3pm/7pm–10.30pm,Saturday 7pm–10.30pm)
monument :
Le Bastion de Thiennes(pas de parking nearby)
Beffroi d'Aire-sur-la-Lys (Saturday at 3pm from April to September. In July and August, visits
additional are organized on Tuesday and Thursday at 3pm,parking nearby)
Paroisse catholique Notre-Dame-Panetière
Air-sur-la-Lys has its origins in the Middle Ages. The locality is first mentioned in the 9th century.
It develops around the Lys, an important river that has played a key role in the history of the region.
Nowadays, Air-sur-la-Lys is a peaceful town that has preserved its historical heritage while adapting to the
needs of modern life. It offers a charming setting and is a sought-after place of residence for many residents.
Dunkerque
restaurant :
La Cocotte
La Patatière
La Moule Rit
monument :
Eglise St Eloi(hourly:10am/1pm, 3pm-5pm)
Beffroi(hourly:10am/1pm, 3pm-5pm)
Fort Vallières
Porte de la Marine
event :
Carnaval(Sunday 11/02/2024)
Dunkirk’s origins date back to the early Middle Ages. The town was originally a small fishing village located on the coast of the North Sea.
The city was fortified during its history to protect itself from invasions. The fortifications of Dunkirk played a crucial role in protecting the city, especially during the wars and conflicts of the region.
Dunkirk is today a dynamic and modern city. It is known for its deep water port, chemical and steel industry, as well as for its important transport links to the UK. The city also hosts many festivals and cultural events.
Saint-Omer
restaurant :
Le Phare Café(hours:12:00-14:00/19:00-21:00 (closes at 21:30 on Friday and Saturday, closed on Sunday and Monday),parking nearby)
La Fringalette(hours:09:00-19:00, Sunday: 15:00-19:00, no parking)
La Taverne de Duchenot
monument :
La Motte Castral
Cathédrale Notre Dame
L’abbaye Saint-Bertin(ruines)
event :
le cortège nautique du Haut-Pont de Saint-Omer(28 July,Haut-Pont)
Saint-Omer has medieval origins, with evidence of dwellings from antiquity. The city was founded in the 7th century by Saint Audomar (or Saint Omer), hence its name. He established a monastery in the area, which became the core of the city.
During the Middle Ages, Saint-Omer became an important religious center. The monastery of Saint-Bertin, founded in the 7th century, has become a centre of learning and culture. The monastic library was renowned throughout Europe.
The city was also fortified to protect itself from outside attacks. The ramparts and moat date from this medieval era and are still visible today.
Saint-Omer is a city with well-preserved architecture, including half-timbered houses, churches and historic buildings. The city is also known for its public garden, the Saint-Omer Public Garden, which is a popular place to relax.
