June 21 - Lille

 June 21 - Lille

As Lille is more known for its culture rather than for its tourist attractions we just thought we’d have a wander around the old town and see what’s around.  


Our first stop was at the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Treille. Constructed between 1856 to 1999 this cathedral was built in a mix of styles, Neo Gothic & Contemporary, and, for my money, it just doesn’t work. Although we’ve seen other cathedrals with a blending of styles, Norman & Gothic, Renaissance & Baroque for example, these have all been sympathetic to each other, however, this one is strange! 😳

Just to add to this ‘weirdness’ effect, the whole church has been made in a light grey stone yet the bell tower, which had been forgotten in the original design, is made from brick.    


Continuing on with our wandering around town we were a little unlucky as a couple of sites we’d earmarked were closed for visitors. Still, the weather was nice, the old town is lovely, and of course, being in France, the food was good!  

This afternoon took us for a walk through a really nice park on the edge of town.  Home to a zoo, a canal, a river, and the remains (but still working) of an old moat, it was lovely.


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