RED RIDING HOOD

So far been there three times and I am pretty sure I will keep visiting this rather Flemish city at the northern France. When you see the architecture, you will know what I am talking about: bricks and gold.

Food is oriented on the fish and shells from the Northern sea. I captured this oyster seller at the streets of Lille, on early Sunday morning just preparing his tent.

That Sunday morning markets, however, were noisy and hectic…

The original inhabitants of this region were the Gauls. Until the Vikings came in 10th century.

The 16th and 17th centuries were marked by a boom in the regional textile industry, the Protestant revolts, and outbreaks of the Plague.

I am particularly in love with the city center of this city!
The charm of this city is that, despite being the largest in northern France, it doesn’t behave like a grand French city  – no pace for arrogance – only warm hearts here.

And then the Bourse just there – the magnificent building open to host the flea market.

Then the Post-French Revolution period resulted with another economic growth as being close to the cities like Saint Omer, Brugge or Roubaix. But soon the Europe was back again in World Wars. In the aftermath – the art deco style and the Belle Epoque were present (that was the time of discovery of champagne). 🙂

Lille Cathedral or Basilica of Notre Dame de la Treille is a Roman Catholic church dating from 12th century.

Walking around and across the Old city I stumbled upon the Palace of Justice. Nice building!

The city lays on the river La Doule. Not something particularly amazing but still nice and romantic.

Close to it is the citadelle Vauban. Thebuilding was raised in 17th century by one of the notable French kings. However, of course Napoleon used it up most.

Did you know that Charles de Gaulle was born in Lille?

He was a French army officer and statesman who led the French Resistance against Nazi Germany in World War II.

Time to eat local! As I mentioned, the shells are on the main plate here!