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Admiring Amiens

4th May 2006

Amiens is one of the prettiest cities you could hope to come across in France.

With a rich heritage and impressive history, this city is dominated by the large Cathedral in the heart of Amiens.

An amazing construction, built in the 13th century, the visitor's attention is always drawn to the nave, with the large pillars on either side accentuating the height of this impressive structure.

However, while the place is impressive on a grand scale, there was no corners cut when looking at the finer details – the beautiful oak choir stalls, dating from the 16th century, contain sculptures of over 4,000 figures. Some depict scenes from everyday life in Amiens while others represent important figures in the region at this time.

Amiens also contains large, picturesque gardens which ensure that the city has plenty of greenery. Known as the Hortillonnages, these former marshes are dotted around the branches of the River Somme and offer some of the most beautiful views of the city.

Intrinsic to the history of Amiens is the author Jules Verne. Known around the world for his books 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Around the World in 80 Days, Verne wanted to be a sailor as a child, so it is perhaps little wonder that he ended up living in Amiens in later life.

Elected to the Amiens town council in 1888, Verne was well-respected in the city and is buried in the Cimetiere de la Madeleine in the city.

Verne also opened Amiens Circus in 1889, another example of some impressive architecture, and the building still hosts a variety of traditional shows all year round.

© Adfero Ltd

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