©Nohcab Calais: City of Art and History
By joining the prestigious circle of Cities of Art and History, Calais affirms its commitment to promoting its rich heritage. Awarded by the Ministry of Culture, this label highlights the fascinating history of the city, shaped by its port, fortifications, architecture and textile heritage.
The City of Art and History label
Calais obtained this label thanks to its multiple heritage : Vauban fortifications, world-famous lace, seaside architecture, Art Deco monuments, maritime history… The city has an active policy of restoration and enhancement historic sites, with ambitious conservation projects.
The desire is to raise awareness among all audiences, from the curious visitor to the passionate history lover, by setting up tools adapted to each type of discovery. Thanks to this recognition, Calais invites you to a unique cultural immersion, between past and modernity. A visit to the city becomes a real journey back in time, where each street and each building tells a unique story.
©Nohcab A city to explore and feel
Calais is a city of living history, where each district reveals a page of its past. Whether you admire the breathtaking view from the Belfry of the Town Hall, whether you marvel at the Art Deco facades or let yourself be carried away by the story of the maritime past of the city, every moment is an invitation to discovery and wonder. As you walk the streets, look up to observe the elegant Art Deco facades, reflections of a flourishing era where reconstruction shaped a unique aesthetic.
La lace, pride of the city, can be discovered through its museums and demonstrations of know-how, revealing the artisanal excellence that has made Calais famous internationally.
Le port and its maritime heritage illustrate the unbreakable link between the city and the sea. Through the thematic tours, you will discover the importance of commercial exchanges, the Courgain fishermen and the port infrastructures which have shaped the local economy.
Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or simply curious, let yourself be carried away by this city where every stone, every alleyway and every horizon tells a fascinating story.
©F. Kleinefenn 
©Nohcab Guide Collection
City of Art and History
The City of Art and History service offers three collections of guides adapted to all desires. Focuses offer a quick immersion into a monument or a significant period. The paths invite you to explore the city on foot or by bike through different themes (Art Deco, fortifications, maritime heritage, lace). The Explorer Guides, designed for families, transform discovery into a fun and interactive adventure.
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Discover Calais’ heritage
The service City of Art and History of the City of Calais deploys a multitude of tools to accompany your exploration of the city and reveal its hidden treasures: Guided tours and workshops for young and old,cultural events (Heritage Days, conferences, thematic tours) to deepen your knowledge of the history and architecture of the city or even Digital mediation and visit supports to guide you independently and immerse yourself in the history of the city, whether you are alone, with family or friends.
Whether you are a fan of urban routes, an architecture lover or a maritime history enthusiast, every corner of Calais reveals a facet of its identity. Thanks to the various initiatives of the label, you will be able to better understand how the city has evolved over the centuries and appreciate its heritage dynamism.
©nohcab