Heritage & Culture

Heritage & Culture

Thiérache is a land where history is evident in every stone and village. Here, heritage is everywhere, from impressive fortresses and religious buildings to rural red brick architecture. Discover some must-see attractions not to be missed during your stay.

The Guise castle

About thirty minutes away, the Château de Guise overlooks the Oise Valley. It is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. Its underground passages, ramparts, and renovated rooms will immerse you in eight centuries of history, spanning the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

The Familistère of Guise

Near the castle is the Familistère , a unique place in the world. Built by Jean-Baptiste André Godin in the 19th century, it was a true "social palace" intended to house and educate workers in modern conditions for the time. Today, the site offers tours, exhibitions and cultural events.

The fortified churches

Thiérache is dotted with more than 60 fortified churches , built between the 16th and 17th centuries. These buildings, both places of worship and refuges for the inhabitants, are distinguished by their massive brick towers. A stroll through the villages allows you to discover several of them, all different but equally impressive.

Chimay

Across the Belgian border, the town of Chimay is world-renowned for its Trappist beer and cheese. Scourmont Abbey, still inhabited by monks, perpetuates this centuries-old tradition. A visit to Chimay, with its heritage, gastronomy, and surrounding nature, is a wonderful getaway from Thiérache.

Laon, medieval city

A little further afield, the town of Laon is well worth a visit. Its upper town, perched on a hill, is home to a majestic Gothic cathedral and offers stunning views. Stroll through its medieval streets and discover one of Picardy's architectural gems.

✨ Between medieval fortresses, social utopias, religious buildings and ancestral know-how, Thiérache and its surroundings offer a cultural and historical wealth to explore without moderation.