01.07.2019.
Amiens- the capital of Picardy- is one of the exceptional towns that exist in North of France. It counts more than 100 000 people and offers incredible promenades along the river Somme full of flower canals. At these wonderful canals you can also take a boat ride.
During my visit to Paris in April, Amiens was such a wonderful day trip from Paris. Discovering Amiens on twitter happened just by chance. Though it takes 1,5 h from Paris- precisely 116 km- the Flixbus offered very cheap prices. It was only 1,20€ one way and it took me 3 hours.
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Floating gardens of Amiens
Floating gardens in Amiens or hortillonnages occur near the town’s center. Though officially proclaimed that boat is the only way to explore the floating gardens, walking around is equally lovely. The boat ticket is 7€.
The boats depart near Saint Leu district and the cathedral, at the Northern side of the river. The floating boats- just like in the Thailand, isn’t it?
Artistic bridges frame the entrance of the houses along with the tables that explain the history of these canals. Taking roots in the ancient times, they represent a wonder to the eyes. Though the area of water chennels or riux consists of 65 km, right in the central Amiens it’s only 7 km.
Little bit of history of floating gardens in Amiens
Visiting floating gardens means getting lost in the art of nature, but also in the art of gardening. The gardens probably appeared already in the 15th century.
The school of natation once existed here mainly as an educational centre for children. Originating around 1980, it was once a public swimming pool. Due to the poor quality of the water it was closed.
The rich vegetation includes wild plants like loosestrife, waterlilies, fireweed, viburnum, bindweed. Some exotic plants are also present like primroses. The plants like menthe, comfrey and the others surround the water edges. Some miniature species keep their way due to the cummunal interest. Many birds find their home also here. In the ancient time swans were the object of hunt.
Festival of gardens in Amiens
Festival of gardens creates wonderful artistic installations at the island Robinson, especially in the water.
Of course, these gardens are not only of recreational value as they offer a market space, once and today. Actually, every Saturday the water market takes place at the district od Saint-Leu. They still walk around in costumes every 3rd Sunday just like in ancient times, but for market purpose.
What to see in Amiens
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Being under protection of UNESCO World Heritage, Notre-Dame in Amiens is truly a majestic place. Surrounded by lovely park, it unveils the wonder at its stunning door.
Here starts the distric of Saint Leu and it deserves some more attention. The hight and largeness of cathedral is what makes it special with its gothic art. The stained-glass windows, the labyrinth through the tower and faboulous views inspire the visit.
This 13th century building took the record time to be completed, only 68 days for that time. At the night it becomes gorgeous thanks to the lights of colourful windows.
Jules Verne’s House in Amiens
Such a historical person was born in this incredible town- the famous writer Jules Verne. Visiting his unusual house is such a thrill. Who comes to take 80 days around the world in Amiens? Or The Journey to the interior of the world? Or 20 000 Leagues under the sea?
Samara- archeological park near Amiens
Samara is the archelogical park near Amiens, full of history. I wish that I visited Samara, its houses with triangle shaped roofs are so sweet. This village takes you back in time, only to learn more about our own origin, of the mankind. I will surely be back sooner or later. You can even try Roman and Galic food, discover new plants at the marshland or celebrate the celtic New Year at the beginning of November.
Museum of Picardy
This museum is a magnifiscient building with incredible art collection.
Marie-sans-Chemise
This beautiful sculpture with the clock near cathedral that stands as the celebration of the spring I also have missed.
Festival of the birds and nature
Festival of birds in Abeville happens in April with already 30th edition this year. For 9 days the rich programme offers guided tours, many films and much fun for the whole family.
Final thoughts
Amiens is more than floating gardens so don’t hesitate to visit it and staying overnight. Get to know Picardy, be immersed into the fantasy from another time- Jules Verne’s, ancient mankind or the floating gardens.
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Thank you so much for a lovely account of Picardy. I go to Paris often enough but yet to visit this floating garden. Reading your post has certainly encouraged me to do so.
The floating garden is beautiful and I now know it exists because of you. Thanks for sharing.
Remember to visit the cemetery with many noted French buried there, including Jules Verne, who has one of the most beautiful, moving sculptures over his grave.