Maison de Jules Verne
Amiens
with displays in French and English, this is where Jules Verne wrote many of this famous novels outlining his vision of the future with models, prints and posters. When going round the world in 80 days seemed impossible
Cathédrale Notre Dame
Amiens
the largest Gothic cathedral in France boasting the head of John The Baptist, and the famous Crying Angel. Don't miss the octagonal maze in the floor of the nave. 45 minute free light show from mid June to mid September
Clairière de l'Armistice
Compiègne
the armistice that put an end to WWl was signed in the railway carriage of the Allied Commander. In 1940 Hitler forced the French to sign an armistice that recognised Germany's domination of France. This carriage is of the same type as the original
French military base used as a Nazi transit camp from 1941-44. 53,000 men, women and children were held here. 48,000 were marched through town and onto trains for the trip east to concentration camps. This is a profoundly moving museum
Musée de Picardie
Amiens
set in a stunning 19th Century palace with excellent statuary from antiquity to the nineteenth century, as well as archaeological and medieval exhibits
Palais Impérial
Compiègne
imposing grandeur of over 1000 rooms. Audioguide available in English. The Petit Parc gardens lead to the Grand Parc which is a favourite venue for hiking and cycling. Entrance ticket includes 3 other museums on site
predating the more prestigious Gothic cathedrals, this gem is considered a model for Chartres, Reims and Dijon, with a gilded wrought iron choir screen and 12th century stained glass. An Autoguide can be hired from the tourist office next door