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Cambrai
Cambrai is in the Nord department of the Nord Pas de Calais region, 26kilometres south of Douai.
The story of Cambrai is forever the story of the First World War, where it was infamously at the centre of the world's first tank battle. Not surprisingly this did little for the architecture of the town! Despite this, the town is interesting to visit and has more to offer the visitor than might be expected by this past.
The town hall (pictured above) has been well restored, and faces on to the large central cobbled square of the town. The cathedral is also noteworthy - albeit an 18th century replacement for an earlier cathedral - and the interesting church of Saint-Gery is worthy of a visit.
Also take a look at the Tourism Office - it is based in a very fine medieval house dating from 1595, and the wooden sculptures that once decorated the outside of the building can now been seen inside.
The belfry on St Mary's Church at Cambrai is one of those listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the category 'Belfries of France and Belgium'.
Several paintings by Velazquez can be seen at the town museum, along with various other notable painters, both French and Flemish.
Head east from Cambrai to Le Cateau - the birthplace of Matisse, and now home to a museum/gallery dedicated to the artist.
Cambrai: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
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Places to visit - Cambrai
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Cambrai.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Cambrai are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
Tourist Classifications for Cambrai
- Listed as "Ville d'Art et Histoire" (ie focus on preserving the town heritage)
Information and photos
This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Cambrai when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.
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