This Roman Catholic parish church, dating predominantly from the 12th and 14th centuries, showcases a striking example of Tudor architecture. Its fortress-like appearance and grand scale reflect the turbulent history of Calais, particularly during the early conflicts between France and England. It features a large nave flanked by aisles, north and south transepts, and a choir with adjacent aisles. One of the most prominent features is the high altar, which was primarily completed by This impressive altar is adorned with detailed carvings and bas-reliefs, complemented by a pedestal and statues dating from and , with the balustrades finishing in Throughout its history, the Church of Our Lady has been a significant site for both French and English royalty.
It has hosted prayers by many kings and queens, reflecting its importance in the broader historical context. Among its notable burials is John Bourchier, 2nd Baron Berners, who rests in the church choir. In addition to its historical and architectural significance, the church houses works of art, including a notable painting of the Descent from the Cross by Peter Paul Rubens.
Designated as a historical monument on September 13, , the church remains a key cultural and religious landmark in Calais. Charles de Gaulle and Yvonne Vendroux were married here in , adding a modern touch to its storied past. Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Nilfanion. Want to visit this sight? The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Walking Tours in Calais, France. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk. Calais Introduction Walking Tour Calais, a French port city, strategically overlooks the Strait of Dover at the English Channel's narrowest point, merely 34 km 21 miles. On a sunny day, one can clearly see the White Cliffs of Dover on the English side.
A major ferry port between France and England, Calais also has been connected directly to the UK by rail, through the Channel Tunnel, since The name Calais, tracing Self-guided walking tours apps on iOS and Android for exploring cities on foot - they make bus tours obsolete!
