Nantes – Lens - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Location: Nantes is a city located in western France, in the Pays de la Loire region, while Lens is a city located in northern France, in the Hauts-de-France region.
- 2. Population: Nantes has a population of around 309,346 inhabitants, making it the sixth largest city in France, while Lens has a population of around 31,106 inhabitants.
- 3. History: Nantes has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has been an important port city throughout its history. Lens, on the other hand, has a more industrial history, known for its coal mining industry.
- 4. Economy: Nantes is known for its diverse economy, with sectors such as aerospace, technology, and tourism playing a significant role. Lens, on the other hand, has faced economic challenges in recent years due to the decline of the coal mining industry.
- 5. Culture: Nantes is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. Lens is home to the Louvre-Lens museum, a satellite of the famous Louvre museum in Paris.
- 6. Football: Both cities have football clubs that compete in the French professional leagues. FC Nantes and RC Lens are two popular clubs with passionate fan bases.
- 7. Transport: Nantes has a well-developed public transport system, including trams, buses, and a bike-sharing program. Lens also has a public transport system, with buses serving the city and surrounding areas.
- 8. Attractions: Nantes is home to attractions such as the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, and the Jardin des Plantes. Lens is known for its mining heritage, with attractions such as the Mining History Centre and the slag heaps of Loos-en-Gohelle.
- 9. Cuisine: Nantes is known for its seafood dishes, such as moules-frites (mussels and fries) and fish stew. Lens is known for its hearty northern French cuisine, including dishes like potjevleesch (a terrine of meats) and carbonnade flamande (beef stewed in beer).
- 10. Festivals: Nantes hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the La Folle Journée music festival and the Voyage à Nantes art festival. Lens hosts events such as the Fête de la Musique and the Christmas market.