Béthune

The town center square had been transformed into an oasis; sand, palm trees, pools, fountains and large rocks surrounded the 14th century belfry.

The Office du Tourisme and the belfry were closed so we wandered around a few of the nearby streets and took a quick look at the formidable brick built cathedral. Flemish influenced, Art-deco buidings from the post first world war re-building dominate the town square, culminating in the façade of the Hotel de Ville.

Unfortunately due to the low light levels and poor contrast, the photographs do not reveal the abundance of architectural detail to be found in some of these buildings.