Churches, Lille

The church has an important role. It is the first church that was built after Lille became the part of France. Vauban architect built it in 1667 in enough unusual style for those times. The church is situated in the Rue du Pont Neuf.

The first church was built here in 1288. The church tower exists since 1504 and it has the oldest bell of the city as well. From 1622 to 1765 the miserable cells existed in the church where people came to pray. Guidebooks said that cause of the high tower it was used for optical telegraph in the end of XVIII century as well as look-out point for city fires till the end of XIX century.

The guidebooks said that Charles de Gaulle was christened here in 1890. The church was built in the beginning of XVIII century by Gombert architect. The building works were stopped in 1708 cause of war (Spanish Succession) and were finished in 1724. The bell tower was constructed in 1887.

Ste Maurice is situated in the central part of the city, near of Gare Flandres. The church was built in XIV century and was renovated several times (last one in 1855). Interior is decorated with paintings of local masters of XVII-XVIII centuries.

This was a beautiful and entirely peaceful Cathedral in the heart of the city. It is of gothic design, started in the 14th century and finished in the 19th. It is a nice place to go into to get away from the everyday hustle and bustle of life in downtown Lille. I also loved it because it was not at all touristy! I think I saw maybe two English tourists there and we were the only 3 in there. The stained glass is also beautiful.

If you get there in time go to the Church Sainte-Marie Madelene to see the wonderful light display. Not open on Mondays. Not Flash photography, just enjoy teh relaxing atmosphere.