Guînes facts for kids
.png)
Guînes is a small town, also known as a commune, located in the northern part of France. It is found in the region called Hauts-de-France (which used to be Nord-Pas-de-Calais) and is part of the Pas-de-Calais department. Guînes is close to the English Channel and has a rich history, especially because of its location near Calais.
Contents
Where is Guînes Located?
Guînes is situated in the Pas-de-Calais department, which is in the very north of France. This area is known for its flat lands and proximity to the sea. The town is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Calais, a major port city. Its location has made it an important place throughout history, especially during times when France and England had close ties or conflicts.
A Glimpse into Guînes' History
Guînes has a long and interesting past, dating back many centuries. It was once the center of a powerful county, which was a large area ruled by a count.
The English Connection
For a long long time, Guînes was under English control. After the Battle of Crécy in 1346, the English captured the nearby city of Calais. Guînes became part of what was known as the "Pale of Calais," a small area around Calais that belonged to England. This lasted for over 200 years! During this time, the English built a strong castle in Guînes to protect their territory.
The Field of the Cloth of Gold
One of the most famous events connected to Guînes happened in 1520. It was called the Field of the Cloth of Gold. This was a huge meeting between King Henry VIII of England and King Francis I of France. They met near Guînes, in a valley between the castles of Guînes and Ardres. The meeting was meant to improve peace between their countries.
- It was an incredibly fancy event, with huge tents made of gold fabric, amazing feasts, and lots of tournaments and games.
- Both kings wanted to show off their wealth and power.
- Even though it was very grand, the meeting didn't lead to lasting peace between England and France.
Back to French Rule
In 1558, the French finally recaptured Calais and Guînes from the English. This was a very important moment for France, as it ended centuries of English rule in that part of the country. Guînes then became fully part of France again.
Blanchard's Column: A Tribute to Flight
One of the most notable landmarks in Guînes is Blanchard's Column. This monument celebrates a very important moment in the history of flight.
- The column honors Jean-Pierre Blanchard, a French inventor and balloonist.
- In 1785, Blanchard, along with an American doctor named John Jeffries, made the first successful flight across the English Channel in a hot air balloon.
- They took off from Dover, England, and landed safely in a forest near Guînes.
- This was a huge achievement at the time, showing that people could travel through the air over water. The column stands as a reminder of this brave journey.
Life in Modern Guînes
Today, Guînes is a peaceful town with a population of around 5,000 people. It serves as a local center for the surrounding farming communities. While its castle is now mostly ruins, the town's history is still very much a part of its identity. Visitors can explore the remains of the castle and see Blanchard's Column, learning about the past.
Guînes is also a gateway to the Regional Natural Park of Caps et Marais d'Opale, an area known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including cliffs, marshes, and forests. This makes it a good spot for people who enjoy outdoor activities and nature.
Images for kids
-
Blanchard's column, a monument to the first cross-Channel balloon flight.
-
A plaque on Blanchard's column, explaining its historical significance.
See also
In Spanish: Guînes para niños
