Bassin du Paradis
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Bassin du Paradis
Quai d'Angoulême - 62100 CALAIS
The Paradis Basin is a must-see during a stroll between two essential attractions: Calais beach and the Courgain Maritime port district. The Paradis Basin was the port of Calais during the Middle Ages. It still shelters boats today and is a regular spot for observing and understanding the natural phenomenon of the tides. The Paradis Basin is located opposite the Courgain Maritime, the historic district of the port of Calais. Many improvements have been made over the centuries, particularly during the English period in Calais (1347-1558). In fact, the name Paradis Basin is an adaptation of the English "Paradise Basin," named after the Paradise family, an influential family from English Calais. Many illustrious figures have visited the Paradis Basin in Calais. The first documented visit is Richard I, also known as Richard the Lionheart (1157-1199), King of England. From the time of the Paradis Basin, the port of Calais established itself as the main port for crossings between France and Great Britain. For example, in the 17th century, Calais became the exclusive transit port in France for postal services between the two countries. Gradually, from the 19th century onwards, with the port's expansion, cross-Channel traffic shifted away from the Paradis Basin. Today, the Paradis Basin is home to private boats. It can be walked along its length and blends perfectly into the overall views of the Courgain Maritime. On its quays, one can see a Calvary in memory of sailors lost at sea and unusual mooring bollards...made from artillery cannons. It's worth noting that, depending on the hourly tide coefficients, the Paradis Basin regularly offers a spectacle provided by Nature! The people of Calais are used to seeing this basin emptied of water and the boats resting on the bottom...before seeing it filled with water a few hours later. A live illustration of the phenomenon of high and low tides.
