Nord-Pas-de-Calais today
The fusion of Pas-de-Calais and Nord departments formed a cornerstone of the newly christened Hauts de France, emerging as one of the 13 regions crafted through the territorial reform of January 1, 2016.
Nord, born on March 4, 1790, arose from the ashes of former French Flanders, Hainaut, and the ecclesiastical principality of Cambresis, with its boundaries defined by the North Sea and Belgium.
As the northernmost bastion of Metropolitan France, it proudly claims Lille as its administrative heart, alongside a constellation of vibrant urban centers including Douai, Dunkirk, and Valenciennes.
Meanwhile, Pas-de-Calais, also forged on March 4, 1790, from the historical provinces of Calaisis, Boulonnais, Artois, and Ponthieu, bears the imprint of ancient settlements, standing as one of France’s most densely populated departments.
Its tapestry of communities, from bustling Calais to the mining enclaves of the north, is anchored by the administrative hub of Arras, while cities such as Béthune and Boulogne-sur-Mer lend their own unique charm to the department’s diverse landscape.
While Pas-de-Calais pulsates with urban energy, much of the department remains steeped in rural tranquility. From the rolling hills of Artois to the rugged coastlines of the Boulonnais, Pas-de-Calais beckons explorers with its timeless allure, a testament to the enduring spirit of its inhabitants across the ages.
Nord-Pas-de-Calais – Historical facts
The Nord, with its strategic positioning and robust fortifications, stands as a bastion of military history, boasting a wealth of architectural marvels such as the formidable fortifications of Maubeuge and the iconic citadel of Lille. Its proximity to Belgium has long rendered it a vital nexus of communication between Great Britain-Ireland and the Continent, amplifying its significance on the geopolitical stage.
Meanwhile, the Pas-de-Calais occupies a unique place in French annals, serving as the hallowed ground where the historic Battle of Agincourt (Azincourt in French!) unfolded in 1415, pitting French valor against English resilience. The strategic importance of Calais, often dubbed the ‘gate to England’, reverberated through the wars of the 20th century, as both departments bore witness to the brutal offensives of WWI and the cunning deception of WWII’s Operation Fortitude.
Despite the scars of conflict, the Nord and Pas-de-Calais stand as testaments to resilience and remembrance, their landscapes dotted with solemn War Remembrance Sites. From the solemn majesty of the Vimy Canadian Memorial to the poignant grace of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette national necropolis and Anneau de la Mémoire, these memorials serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
Indeed, the allure of these sites has sparked a vibrant wave of memorial tourism, drawing visitors from across the globe to pay homage to the fallen and bear witness to the echoes of history etched into the very soil of Nord and Pas-de-Calais.
Agriculture and industry
The Nord-Pas-de-Calais region stands as a verdant tapestry of agricultural abundance, with nearly 70% of its land dedicated to farming. Within this fertile expanse, cereal crops reign supreme, comprising 42% of the region’s agricultural output.
Yet, it is the region’s diverse array of specialty crops that truly sets it apart on the culinary stage. From chicory and endives to small peas and potatoes, the Nord-Pas-de-Calais claims the lion’s share of domestic production, earning acclaim as a hub of gastronomic excellence. Market gardening flourishes in key urban centers like Lille, Dunkerque, and Saint-Omer, while cattle breeding and dairy farming thrive, yielding an array of fine cheeses and meats. Not content to merely tantalize the taste buds, the region also boasts a robust fishing and seafood industry, contributing 20% of the nation’s domestic production and further enhancing its culinary reputation.
Yet, the Nord-Pas-de-Calais is no stranger to industry, with a storied past in textiles, iron and steel production, and coal mining. While the closure of coal mines signaled a shift away from traditional industries, the region has embraced diversification, welcoming modern developments such as the Channel Tunnel.
Since its opening in 1994, the Eurostar has connected London to key destinations like Lille, Arras, and Paris, as well as Brussels and Amsterdam via Calais, ushering in a new era of connectivity and opportunity for the Nord-Pas-de-Calais.
Tourism in Nord-Pas-de-Calais
Bathed in a temperate oceanic climate, the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region enjoys mild winters and moderately warm summers, albeit with fewer hours of sunshine due to its northern latitude. This consistent climate ensures even rainfall throughout the year, nurturing the lush green landscapes that define the countryside.
The true jewel of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais, however, lies along its stunning coastline. The Côte d’Opale, with its sandy shores and pebbled beaches, beckons travelers to indulge in the vibrant seaside tourism that thrives along its picturesque expanse.
The Pas-de-Calais coastline offers breathtaking landmarks such as Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez, and a 15-kilometer stretch between Dunkirk and the Belgian border known as the Dunes de Flandre or Côtes des Dunes de Flandre. Extending further to the mouth of the river Yser in Nieuwpoort, Belgium, this coastline captivates with its natural beauty and serene ambiance.
Tucked away amidst this coastal splendor are trendy seaside resorts like Le Touquet, affectionately dubbed the “Pearl of the Opal Coast,” offering a blend of elegance and charm that attracts visitors from far and wide. Indeed, whether seeking relaxation on sandy shores or adventure amidst rugged cliffs, the Nord-Pas-de-Calais coastline promises an unforgettable escape for all who wander its shores.
Area: 6,671,35 km2
Population: 1,465.000 (01/01/2013)
