AMIENS
AMIENS, Picardie region northern France. Historic city which was part of both World Wars. Much
of the city was destroyed, but the restoration has been historic and very well done.
Amiens cathédral is one of the 23 biggest in the world and is taller than Notre Dame in Paris. It rises 112 meters in a central square. The interior restoration is well done with descriptions in French German and English. Many of the stained glass windows were destroyed during the war but the ones they saved are magnificent. The three great doors are well restored and come to full beauty at night during the light show. The cathedral is very clean and shines in the sun.
The city is easy to discover, many of the restaurants are on canal Saint-Leu. Some of the old wooden houses are located on the adjoining small streets. The area is lively at night Until the light show starts which is @ 30 minutes after sunset. You sit on the steps facing the cathedral and watch the light show..It moves and changes but the final image is what the original looked like on the exterior. It was painted, I personally like it white.
Amiens is only a 1 hour 20 minute train from Paris and is not expensive. Only three hours from Brussels and four house from London. It is also near Beauvais airport which is the hub for Ryanair and hotels are not expensive. Food is fabulous! also, not expensive. You must have “ficelle picarde’ which is a pancake filled with ham and mushrooms and cooked in cream served bubbling hot, it is a good idea to share because it is very rich.
The Jules Verne house is a highlight. He was very much a part of the culture of the town when he was writing. His wife was from the city and loves it. Many writers joined him in his home so it has a lot of history
The city is very much worth an over night stay. The light show does not operate all year so check dates before you go. It does operate during the Christmas season as well as a great Christmas marché.
Enjoy northern France!
Raenette DeCicco
4 Seasons Travel Inc
San Juan PR 00907
tel 787-722-0660
