Lauwin-Planque
A blend of history, industrial heritage and unspoilt nature, Lauwin-Planque and the Douaisis region form a unique mosaic that reflects the identity of the Nordic region.
Small but rich in history, Lauwin-Planque bears traces of a past that dates back to the Neolithic period. This commune of 1,600 souls, located a few kilometers from Douai, was born in 1574 from the union of the Lauwin and Planque seigneuries. Today, its peaceful streets and open countryside are a reminder of its rural heritage. Its Saint-Ranulphe church, built in the XIXᵉ century, stands as a discreet witness to local history, as do its street names, sometimes imbued with unusual anecdotes. Here, time seems suspended, offering a setting imbued with serenity.
Modernity in motion
Despite its tranquil appearance, Lauwin-Planque is also a symbol of transformation and modernity. With the Amazon logistics center, a veritable local economic powerhouse, the municipality stands out for its dynamism. This ultra-modern site, with its 13 soccer pitches, employs almost 4,500 people - far more than the village's population. It is both a source of pride for the area and an illustration of the economic changes taking place in the Douais region. This blend of history and renewal makes Lauwin-Planque unique in the region.
Douaisis, a land of history and culture
Lauwin-Planque may be the epitome of serenity, but the Douais region offers a wealth of culture. At the heart of this region, Douai and its famous belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, have dominated the surrounding area for centuries. This Gothic edifice, with its 62 bells, is the symbol of the town. It is a reminder of Douai's importance in the history of Flanders. Another cultural gem, the Musée de la Chartreuse, housed in a former XIVᵉ century Carthusian monastery, is home to a remarkable art collection. Here, past and creativity meet to illustrate all the richness of the region.
Nature as a setting
The Douaisis countryside completes the picture, offering a haven of peace for nature lovers. The banks of the Scarpe, with their footpaths, are ideal for a stroll along the water's edge. Further north, the Arkéos archaeological park reveals the remains of the Middle Ages, while allowing visitors to discover the natural environment surrounding these historic discoveries. The Douaisis region, with its green spaces and wetlands, showcases an omnipresent and respected natural environment.
Lauwin-Planque and the Douaisis illustrate the unique identity of the Nord region: a land where history meets innovation, where nature rubs shoulders with a rich cultural heritage. While Lauwin-Planque impresses with its economic dynamism and serenity, the Douaisis region, with its lively traditions and unspoilt landscapes, reflects the diversity and richness of a region that is anchored in the present while retaining a strong link with its roots.