L'histoire d'ARRAS... A toute Berzingue !

Summary

This video explores the rich history of Arras, France, from its Roman origins to its modern-day significance. The script highlights key moments, such as its Roman construction, medieval trade routes, and importance in the Thirty Years' War. It delves into the city's fortifications, including the impressive Citadel of Vauban, and examines the impact of World War I and II on the area, including the use of underground tunnels. The video also touches on historical figures like Maximilien Robespierre, offering a glimpse into the complex history that shaped this vibrant city.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nemetacum, the ancient Roman city that became Arras, was built under Emperor Augustus with streets arranged at right angles around the Cardo Maximus.
• 😀 The modern Rue Baudimont follows the ancient Roman street, offering a glimpse of ancient infrastructure like ruts from chariots and wooden water channels.
• 😀 Arras was a major trade hub in the Middle Ages, situated on the Via Francigena, a trade and pilgrimage route connecting London to Rome.
• 😀 The Grand Place and Place des Héros in Arras were central marketplaces that preserved the medieval spirit of the city, with typical Flemish architecture.
• 😀 The Belfry of Arras symbolized the wealth and power of the bourgeoisie in the Middle Ages and was a central symbol of the city’s prosperity.
• 😀 Arras was annexed by France in 1659 through the Treaty of the Pyrenees, securing the northeastern borders of the kingdom.
• 😀 In the 17th century, the Vauban Citadel was constructed in Arras to strengthen the city’s defenses as part of France's military fortifications.
• 😀 During both World Wars, Arras was heavily bombed, and much of the city was destroyed, prompting residents to take shelter in underground tunnels.
• 😀 The underground tunnels, known as the BOV (Boves), originally quarries, became shelters and are now a popular tourist attraction.
• 😀 Maximilien Robespierre, born in Arras, is a key historical figure, and his house in the city is now a museum dedicated to his revolutionary legacy.

Q & A

What is Nemetacum, and how was it built?

Nemetacum was a Roman city, built by Emperor Augustus, following the Roman orthonormal city design. This means its streets were laid out at right angles, centered around a major axis known as the 'cardo maximus.'

What is the significance of the street 'Baudimont' in relation to Nemetacum?

Baudimont Street corresponds to the ancient Roman street, the 'cardo maximus,' which served as a vital spine in the city's layout. It runs through a central area of Nemetacum and can still be followed today in the modern city.

What remains of the Roman era in Nemetacum?

Miraculously, many Roman-era remnants of Nemetacum remain, particularly along the Baudimont Hill. Visitors can see well-preserved streets, carriage wheel ruts, water canals made of wood, and a sidewalk that once had columns for shelter from rain.

What was the 'Via Francigena,' and how did it impact Arras?

The Via Francigena was a major pilgrimage route in the 12th century, connecting London to Rome. It was an important commercial route as well, linking the Mediterranean with northern Europe, which led to Arras becoming a commercial hub specializing in textiles and cloth.

How did the medieval period influence Arras?

During the medieval period, Arras became an important commercial center due to its location on the Via Francigena. The city developed two large market squares, and its architecture featured Flemish-style gables and arcades, reflecting the wealth and trade of the time.

What happened to Arras after the medieval period?

After the medieval period, Arras was annexed by France in 1659 following the Treaty of the Pyrenees. It became part of the kingdom of Louis XIV's strategic defense network, particularly to protect France's northern border, which was vulnerable.

How did Louis XIV contribute to Arras' defense?

Louis XIV fortified Arras by commissioning the construction of a citadel designed by the military engineer Vauban. This citadel was part of a network of fortifications intended to strengthen France's northern defenses.

How did World War I and II affect Arras?

During both World Wars, Arras was severely damaged due to its proximity to the front lines. Over three-quarters of the city was destroyed, and the residents had to take refuge in the vast network of underground galleries originally used for quarrying stone.

What are the Boves of Arras, and how are they used today?

The Boves are underground galleries and tunnels that date back to the medieval period. They were initially used as stone quarries but later served as shelters during wartime. Today, part of the 24 kilometers of underground tunnels can be visited, providing a glimpse into the city's history.

What role did Maximilien Robespierre play in French history, and what connection does he have with Arras?

Maximilien Robespierre, one of the key figures of the French Revolution, was born in Arras. His former home in the city has been transformed into a museum to explore his complex life and legacy, which continues to provoke debate and interest.