Calais

With its incredible geographical position overlooking the Strait of Dover, representing the narrowest point in the English Channel, the French town Calais is the closest one to its neighbor country, England. Distributed between the two great powers in historical times and playing a major role during the two World Wars, Calais has always been a wanted territory and has grown in beauty with the changes in time.

The Value of a Good Positioned Port

Calais is located in the North part of France and is a sub-prefecture of the department called Pas-de-Calais. Known ever since Roman times as Caletum Calais can be divided into the old port and Calais proper (Calais-Nord), the more modern side which is situated on an artificial island and is surrounded by canals and harbors. This city which separates Southern England from Northern France joining the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean has had a major historical importance due to its marvelous positioning.

True Warrior

The two great powers of the world France and England have battled ever since the Middle Ages for the territory of Calais. The strategically positioned destination was captured by England and Edward the 3rd in 1347. Thirteen years after the Treaty of Bretigny ceded the city to England and Calais was part of the great monarchy two centuries long. It was not until 1558 that it was recaptured by the French. In 1805 it was the key point in Napoleon's invasion of England. During both World Wars Calais has functioned as a major base. Used as ''bait'' by the Allies to deceive the Germans, the by then heavily bombarded port has managed to make Hitler to keep his German forces around the city till July 1944.

A Delightful Renaissance

Due to its preeminent part during the wars, Calais has concentrated its undeniable contribution in the War Museum. The city which was completely reconstructed after the severe destruction can amaze with its city hall, a dominating central building built in Flemish Renaissance style, its harbor offering spectacular panoramic views and various gastronomic delights, its long pier and lighthouse. From the shores of Calais you are able to see the chalky white Cliffs of Dover and another part of the same geological formation, the Cote d'Opale.

A quiet day at the Calais Beach, a ferry ride across the English Channel or a knowledge boost at the Fine Art and Lace Museum are only some of the activities which visitors can choose among.

The strategically positioned French town Calais is a place of great beauty even after the horror of the wars. Known as a true ''soldier” of the past, the present Calais has the power to enchant you.