Calais - Old Town

As well as an important port, Calais is also a popular seaside resort, with one of the finest beaches in northern France. During the Second World War the old town of Calais (Calais-Nord) was almost completely destroyed, together with the port installations. After the war Calais was rebuilt, and the port regained its former importance.

In the center of the town, between Calais-Nord and St- Pierre, is the Place du Soldat- Inconnu, with the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall, 1910-1922), in Flemish Renaissance style, and Rodin's famous group, "The Burghers of Calais" (1895), commemorating the 11-month siege of the town by the English in 1348 and its subsequent occupation by them until 1558.

In the rebuilt old town of Calais-Nord is the Tour Guet, a 13th century watch tower. Southeast of this is the church of Notre- Dame (13th and 16th century). On the north side of the town is a lighthouse (1848) from which there is a fine view of the harbor.