A few words about Beauvais

Though it is immersed in the shadow of the French capital Paris, the town of Beauvais boasts adventurous background and is one of the major historical sites of France. Located near Paris, the town was first founded by the Romans and carried the name of Caesaromagnus. Vestiges of the Roman city walls can still be seen there. Later on it took its present name from the designation of a Belgic tribe, as it was its capital in the 9th century. When France already existed and was becoming more and more powerful, the town was most influent for the Bishop of Beauvais who crowned the French Kings at the time. Beauvais was besieged several times by the English. Once it was defended by a woman who led the troops against the English armies. Jeanne Hachette is still commemorated with an annual procession that takes place in the city in October, during which women take precedence of men.

Beauvais has preserved most of its historical memory. In its central streets houses from 12th and 16 centuries coexist with newer buildings. The Town Hall is set in a splendid 18th century building with the statue of Jeanne Hachette in front of it. One of the most famous sites in France is the Cathedral St. Pierre of Beauvais. It is the highest cathedral in the country and represents an overwhelming demonstration of human spirit reaching for the skies. Unfortunately the desire to reach divine was too strong and the construction of the building could not entirely stand it. Part of it crushed and today the metallic supporting constructions still exist to keep it alive.

Today the city of Beauvais is a charming modern town of 60 000 population, a small airport and flourishing textile and tapestry industry. It is lively and welcoming, offering pleasing stay with lots of entertainment just next to Paris.