6 Things You Must Do In Lille, France
By: Kratika Maheshwari Mon, 10 Jan 2022 7:41:12
Lille is located in Northern France and is the fifth largest city in the country. Known for its historic buildings and rich culture, there are lots of things to do in Lille. The capital of the Hauts-de-France region, it is filled with heritage sites, green parks, exciting museums, and churches.
Once a Flemish city, Lille was captured by Louis XIV in 1667. Set on the Deûle River, near the border with Belgium, Lille is also known for its industrial background. Here are some of the top things to do in Lille:
# Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille
The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille (“Palace of Fine Arts”) is one of the oldest art Museums in France. Its extensive collection of art is second only to the Louvre and contains paintings, prints, and sculptures as well as various temporary exhibitions. The museum was established on the orders of Napolean in 1809. Most of the pieces are from the 15th-20th centuries, and they include works by masters like Rembrandt, El Greco, Goya, Rubens, Monet, Delacroix, Raphael, and Rodin.
# La Citadelle
This star-shaped military fortress is still an active army base. Built in the 17th century by order of King Louis XIV, the ‘Sun King,’ it is also a self-contained town. It is the perfect place to learn about the history of Lille.
# Natural History Museum
Lille’s Musée d’Histoire Naturelle is a fun and educational place, especially for kids. It is full of hands-on exhibits and a wide range of specimens. Opened in 1822, it will take you on a journey across the world, and back through time, all without leaving the city.
# The Belfry
The belfry at City Hall dominates the landscape of Lille. The 104 meters high tower offers panoramic views of the city. While it does take significant effort to climb to the top of the tower, there is also an elevator.
# Opéra de Lille
The neo-classical Opéra de Lille was built in the 1920s to replace the previous 18th-century structure that burned down in 1903. It is lavishly decorated with sculptures, elegant lighting, beautiful paintings, and gold ornamentation. Located in the city square, it was occupied by the Germans during World War I, though it was reclaimed.
# Hospice Comtesse Museum
This fascinating museum was founded as a hospice in 1237 by Countess Jeanne de Flandre. It functioned until the 18th century and was eventually converted into a museum focused on Flemish history. It is filled with priceless paintings, tapestries, and sculptures. There is also a garden still filled with medicinal herbs.