Douai

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The town of Douai is located in northern France in French Flanders and is part of the Nord department. Located on the Scarpe River, Douai has a population of over 45,000 inhabitants and is known for its impressive belfries and interesting history. Douai was established during the 4th century and was known for its prosperous textile industry during the Middle Ages. In present day it is an industrial and commercial centre and the primary industries are the manufacturing of glass, automobile parts, chemicals, and foundry products.

Among the main attractions in Douai is the Gothic style belfry which was constructed in 1380 and consists of an impressive five octaves of 62 bells with a larger bell known as “Joyeuse” which is located higher in the belfry tower. Nearby is the Porte de Valenciennes town gate which was constructed in 1453 for military purposes.

If you venture through the town of Douai you can walk along the Deulle Canal which is a great canal that flows through the centre of the town and contains some of the best views of the town along with pastoral settings on the outskirts of Douai. You can also see the University of Douai which was established under Phillip II as an educational institution for English Catholics who escaped persecution in England during the 1560s. Douai is also home to the Mines Engineering School and a school for nursing.

If you visit Douai during the month of July you can attend the annual Festival of the Giants which feature hundreds of giants made from wickerwork that represent local legends of the past. The festival also offers music, theatre events, and food tasting, and dates back to 1530 as a Flemish tradition of the region. You can also attend the Les Floralies du Nord which is a five day flower show that is the largest in the Nord department.