To the far east of Pas-de-Calais, on the border with the department of Nord, Saint-Omer is remarkable for its exceptional heritage. A certified Town of Art and History, it indeed has a number of remarkable buildings such as its Gothic cathedral, which contains many treasures. Built from the 13th century onwards, it took nearly three centuries to complete. Its lavish interior is striking: a beautiful pipe organ, numerous sculptures, a Descent from the Cross by Rubens, as well as an astronomical clock dating from the second half of the 16th century. As you leave, admire the bas-relief of the Last Judgment and the sundial from 1610 on the south portal.
After your visit, you can wander the pretty side streets by the cathedral.
Among the other buildings to discover in Saint-Omer, opt for the Abbey of St. Bertin, a former 7th-century Benedictine abbey, or the former military prison on the motte, which started out as a castle and has a garden with beautiful views over the town.
During your visit, you will also be able to see 18th-century houses and elegant mansions. Inside one of them is the Sandelin Museum, a fine arts museum which also tells the story of the town.
Stroll along the quays lined with typical houses and take the opportunity to board a boat for a tour of the Audomarois Marshes.
