🇫🇷 Amiens Travel | Exploring WWI Heritage & the Cathedral

Amiens: A quiet town steeped in history The early morning streets of Amiens are nearly empty—no big-city noise, just a century-old calmness. In Chinese, the city’s name has two translations: "Amián" and "Yàmián", but "Yàmián" better captures its serene, unhurried charm. 📍 Quirky Sights Along the Somme River Amiens gets its name from the Gaulish word for "river", and the Somme River is its soul. Stroll along its banks, and you might spot a stone statue in the middle of the water—wearing an oversized T-shirt that locals change occasionally! Whether in morning mist or golden sunset light, this is the perfect photo spot. 📸 Pro tip: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the river and city skyline. 🏰 Amiens Cathedral: The "Encyclopedia in Stone" A masterpiece of Gothic architecture (built in 1220), the cathedral features three naves, a transept, and an apse, with walls covered in carvings of Christian prophets, saints, and French kings. The Last Judgment sculpture above the main entrance is an artistic treasure, often called the "Bible of Amiens". ⚔️ Traces of History: The Battle of Amiens & War Relics Beyond art, Amiens witnessed pivotal moments in history. The 1918 Battle of Amiens exposed Germany’s exhaustion and marked the turning point for Allied victory in WWI. As you walk through town, century-old photos printed on walls transport you back in time. Near the cathedral, bullet holes still scar a building’s facade—a stark reminder of war’s toll and peace’s value. 🚶‍♀️ One-Day Walking Itinerary Start at the Somme River at dawn for serene views. Visit Amiens Cathedral to admire its carvings. Wander downtown to spot historic wall prints. End at a park, reflecting on the bullet-marked relics. 💡 Tips: Best photo light? Early morning—soft and crowd-free! Unwind at a riverside café with French coffee ☕ and local slow living. 🌈 Final Thoughts Small but mighty, Amiens blends art, history, and charm. From Gothic sculptures to wartime scars, every corner tells a story. Whether you’re a history buff or photographer, this French pearl won’t disappoint. Come explore! ✨ #Amiens #HiddenFrance #BattleOfTheSomme #AmiensCathedral #TravelFrance 🇫🇷📸