Louise de Bettignie square

You are now in the beautiful Louise de Bettignie square. However, as we barely ever talk about the people behind the names of all these places, let’s start with a word on Louise. She was an extraordinary woman who, as a spy during the war, provided the British Secret Services with vital information. She even warned of the attack on Verdun, but no-one believed her! She was eventually handed over to the Germans and sentenced to hard labour for the rest of her life. Yet, as a rebel at heart, she continued to fight from her cell, she was a truly inspiring woman. It may be difficult to imagine, but until 1930 the square was set at the foot of the Grand Rivage harbour. Goods were unloaded and transported here, and there was also a large market hall. The presence of merchants, boatmen and so on made it a very lively place. The square is now completely pedestrian but stays vibrant thanks to many colourful17th century facades. The large yellow and red house on the corner belonged to a wealthy spice and cloth merchant. It’s a perfect example of the time when Lille belonged to the Spanish Netherlands. A period where people thrived and, most importantly, enjoyed showing off their wealth! As owners aimed to convey their power and social status, stone sculptors had a field day! The house is, of course, classified as a historical monument.”