Calais Tourist Attractions

The Channel Tunnel, from Sangatte, a suburb of Calais, to near Dover, opened in late 1994. Three tunnels were driven through an impermeable stratum of chalk about 100m/330ft under the surface. The 50km/30mi journey takes some 20 minutes in high-speed trains. The first plans for a tunnel under the Channel were put to the future Emperor Napoleon by a Frenchman named Albert Mathieu in 1798, but were beyond the technological resources of the time. A further attempt in 1883 came up against British resistance, and a proposal put forward in 1975 foundered for lack of finance.The Chunnel is composed of three tunnels: one for traffic bound for France, one for traffic bound for Great Britain and a smaller service tunnel which connects the other two every 375m. Passenger trains and Le Shuttle are the only vehicles which drive through the tunnel.

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.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle (rebuilt) displays material on the history of the town of Calais, 19th and 20th C sculpture, and a fine collection of pictures.

The annual kite festival brings together the best kites from across the globe on one of Europe's most famed beaches. Solo and group acrobatic demonstrations are also included in this week-long event which takes place in early April.

This annual four-day festival takes place in mid-August and showcases local traditions with participants representing 15 French provinces. Events include dancing in the streets, craft stalls, traditional games and musical concerts.

Musée de la Guerre is located in a battle-scarred German blockhouse which offers a detailed account of local events during World War II.

This day-long festival takes place in late October.