France > France regions > Picardy > Oise > Beauvais
Beauvais
Beauvais is a large town about 75 kilometres north of Paris, in the direction of Amiens. It is the 'capital' of the Oise department.
The ancient centre of the town was more or less destroyed during the Second World War, but in the town there remain some interesting monuments and buildings to discover - although these tend to be a little scattered to the corners of the town.
As you walk around Beauvais you will notice metal markers set in the pavement that denote the places of interest - visit the tourism office for an explanation of wht these refer to.
The (incomplete) cathedral of Saint Peter is the highlight, a substantial gothic style building dating from the 14th-16th centuries and with some interesting carvings and stained glass windows to enjoy. The 19th century astronomical clock is also interesting and is said to be the largest of its type in the world.
There is a scattering of medieval houses to be seen in streets around the cathedral and the town hall. You can also visit the church of St Etienne, for its interesting mix of roman and renaissance style architecture.
There is a museum in the town celebrating its important historical role in the rug and carpet industry, at the 'Galerie Nationale de la Tapisserie de Beauvais'. The museum is found next to the cathedral in a building best described as uninspiring although designed by a reputed architect - just my opinion!
Beauvais: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
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Plan a visit to Beauvais, France
Hotels Beauvais
Holiday rentals / travel
Property for sale Beauvais |
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Map of Beauvais, France |
Places to visit - Beauvais
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Beauvais.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Beauvais are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
Tourist Classifications for Beauvais
- Town is "Ville Fleurie category 4" (ie good attention to gardens and flowers)
Information and photos
This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Beauvais when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.
