Municipality of the Northern Department, Avesnes-sur-Helpe gave its name to the region of Avesnois in which it is located. It is located about twenty kilometers from Maubeuge, near the Belgian border.
City of Art and History, Avesnes-sur-Helpe attracts visitors with its historical and cultural heritage and the rich warmth of its people. How resist these typical monuments North Pas-de-Calais and gastronomic heritage of this city in which to live?
Built around 1080, this fortified city in part by Vauban, has long been an important city at the crossroads of the Netherlands, Burgundy and France. This is Avesnes-sur-Helpe Forest that left Jesse and his companions, the men behind the creation of the city of New York. Now based in the heart of the Regional Natural Park of Avesnois, it is now turned to cultural tourism. The city is also home to a popular culinary specialty, the famous dumpling Avesnes. It is a cow's milk cheese made from debris maroilles.
Very old city, dating from the Middle Ages, Avesnes-sur-Helpe has a rich cultural and architectural heritage that appeals to all visitors.
Dating from the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, the ramparts, the oldest part is due to Vauban, are the main tourist attraction Avesnes-sur-Helpe. In its amendments, Vauban has integrated a modern network outdoor areas and a flood system. Part of this work is still visible, and some have even been restored.
St. Nicolas College is a beautiful Gothic building dating from the twelfth century. Restored in 1534, it houses a bell offered by Charles V, and the sound can be heard every Friday at 10:30.
Built in 1757 on the site of an old town house, the town hall had its porch, its southern façade and roof classified as an historic monument in 1930. It is a fine example of North typical architecture.
The presbytery, now owned by the city, had the honor of welcoming the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte on the night of 13 to 14 Jun, 1815, just before the famous battle of Waterloo.
Also of note in the city center, the Rotunda of the place and its booth, the Art Deco cinema The Cameo, the memorial sculpted by Paul Vannier or door Mons dating from the seventeenth century.
The Regional Natural Park of Avesnois offers a unique setting for hikes or walks to discover wildlife and local flora. Woods and groves and surround the city of Avesnes-sur-Helpe for the delight of nature lovers.
Lively, Avesnes-sur-Helpe no shortage of festivities throughout the year.
The Avesnes-sur-Helpe weekly market takes place every Friday morning from 8:30 to 12:30.
In April, a night market also to discover the fortifications of Vauban and artisans of the region.
A Christmas market is installed in the city in December.
In early April, up at the fair to flies. On this occasion, a food and craft market is held, and a traditional market, dance performances or music, or old farm demonstrations.
The Fest'styles The festival moved every June on the bastion of Avesnes-sur-Helpe. For the event, musical workshops and concerts are organized springboards.
