Lille is the cultural and economic centre of northern France. The city has historically been a part of the County of Flanders, Burgundy, Holy Roman Empire and France throughout its history. It's architecture reflects this fact, with the flemish influence having had the strongest impact on the local culture.
Lille's prominence in the region grew starting with the wool and textile industry taking hold in the middle ages. The city saw a lot of conflict throughout history due to it being located between France and the Netherlands (Austrian Netherlands included). While the industrial revolution and the use of coal allowed the city's wealth to grow, both world wars, the great depression and globalisation started to reduce the influence of textiles and manufacturing leading to a slow decline. However with the connection of Lille to London, Paris and the Netherlands as well as the development of the new financial district of Euralille, the city's economic significance is growing yet again.
Lille is part of the greater conurbation called the European Metropolis of Lille which incorporates bordering french and belgian cities. The overall population of this built up area is over 1.5 million, making it on par with the metro areas of other french cities such as Lyon and Marseille.
I absolutely loved visiting Lille. A french city with such a strong dutch/belgian feel fascinates me. I explored the city as part of a day trip from London and did not regret it.
00:00 Chamber of Commerce
00:24 Euralille
00:53 Cathedral and Churches
01:57 The Citadel of Lille
02:30 Old Town
Music: Here For You by CMA
• CMA - Here For You (Or...
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