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Categories: French Culture, Hauts-de-France
This episode features our frequent and very popular guest Elyse Rivin. If you enjoy her episodes, please consider supporting her on Patreon.
Have you ever thought about visiting Amiens? We think you should explore Amiens because this city in northern France has much to offer. In this episode of the podcast, host Annie Sargent and her friend Elyse Rivin dive into what makes Amiens a fantastic destination. From the largest Gothic cathedral in France to the whimsical world of Jules Verne, there’s something for every traveler.
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Amiens Cathedral: A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture
The Notre-Dame Cathedral of Amiens is the largest Gothic cathedral in France. It’s a true marvel. Annie and Elyse discuss its stunning architecture, rich history, and record-breaking size. Did you know that Notre Dame de Paris could fit inside it twice? The cathedral was built in just 70 years, making it one of the most cohesive examples of Gothic architecture in Europe.
The cathedral’s intricate carvings and sculptures are awe-inspiring. Elyse shares fascinating stories about its construction and the relic of Saint John the Baptist’s face, which drew pilgrims from all over Europe. If you’re into history, this is a must-see.
Accommodations for Visitors Exploring Amiens
- Hotel Spa Marotte
3 Rue Marotte, 80000 Amiens
Elegant boutique hotel with luxurious suites, a champagne bar, and exceptional service. - ibis Styles Amiens Centre
Rue Alexandre Fatton, 80000 Amiens
Trendy mid-range hotel with spacious rooms, varied breakfast, and a central location. - Hotel Le Prieuré
17 Rue Porion, 80000 Amiens
Quirky, family-run hotel near the cathedral, offering clean rooms and friendly service.
- Holiday Inn Express Amiens
10 Boulevard Alsace Lorraine, 80000 Amiens
Convenient and family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a complimentary breakfast. - Ibis Budget Amiens Centre Gare
15 Rue Dejean, 80000 Amiens
Affordable and clean, located near the train station and city center.
Hortillonnages: Floating Gardens of Amiens
Amiens is famous for its Hortillonnages, or floating gardens. These canals, dating back to Roman times, are lined with lush gardens and colorful flowers. Annie and Elyse describe how these gardens were originally used to grow food for the Roman armies. Today, they’re a tranquil escape and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a boat tour or a peaceful walk to enjoy these charming gardens. The canals give Amiens a unique character, often compared to Venice. Elyse calls them one of the most beautiful parts of the city, even in winter.
Jules Verne: Amiens’ Most Famous Resident
Did you know that the legendary author Jules Verne lived in Amiens? Annie, a lifelong fan of Verne’s works, shares her love for his novels, including 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (free on Kindle), Around the World in 80 Days (free on Audible), and Journey to the Center of the Earth (narrated by Tim Curry). Verne’s house in Amiens, now the Maison Jules Verne Museum, is a must-visit.
Amiens, the Perfect City
Elyse talks about how Verne moved to Amiens after falling in love with a local woman. He called it “the perfect city.” The museum showcases his writing desk, personal artifacts, and even his grave in the nearby La Madeleine Cemetery, where he seems to rise out of a book, reaching for the stars.
The Battle of the Somme: A Sobering Visit
History buffs will appreciate the proximity of Amiens to the Battle of the Somme sites. Annie and Elyse discuss this pivotal World War I battle, which took place nearby. They highlight key sites like Villers-Bretonneux and the Lochnagar Crater, a massive reminder of the war’s devastation.
Visiting these locations offers a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war. It’s a moving experience for those interested in military history.
Culinary Delights in Amiens
One of the reasons why you should explore Amiens is to get a chance to sample the local cuisine. Annie and Elyse rave about Ficelle Picarde, a savory crepe filled with ham, mushrooms, and creamy béchamel sauce. They also mention pâté de canard, gâteau battu, and the city’s famous macarons.
Amiens offers a delicious mix of hearty northern French dishes that will satisfy any foodie.
Why You Should Explore Amiens
Annie and Elyse agree that Amiens is worth at least two days of your time. From its stunning cathedral to its tranquil gardens and rich history, there’s plenty to explore. If you’re a fan of Jules Verne or interested in World War I history, you’ll love it even more.
Looking for a day trip? Amiens is just a short train ride from Paris. You can also use it as a base to explore nearby towns like Beauvais or the Baie de Somme.
Listen to the Full Episode
Ready to plan your trip to Amiens? Listen to the full podcast episode for even more tips and insights. Annie and Elyse share personal stories, historical tidbits, and practical advice for making the most of your visit.
Have you been to Amiens? Share your favorite memories or ask us questions in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more travel inspiration!
Table of Contents for this Episode
More episodes about the Hauts de France region
#Amiens, #GothicCathedral, #JulesVerne, #TravelFrance, #Hortillonnages, #BattleOfTheSomme, #WWIHistory, #FrenchCuisine, #ExploreFrance, #HiddenFrance, #VisitAmiens, #NorthernFrance, #CathedralOfAmiens, #FrenchHistory, #TravelPodcast, #FrenchCulture, #PicardyRegion, #JulesVerneMuseum, #HistoricalTravel, #DiscoverFrance
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TranscriptCategories: French Culture, Hauts-de-France