Square de Flandre

Beneath the city’s hum, Square de Flandre whispers tales of transformation. Originally named Lezennes, this metro station, opened in 1983, held a name that misled many. It didn’t actually serve the town of Lezennes, a twenty-minute walk away. Imagine the confusion for travelers arriving, expecting a short stroll to their destination, only to find themselves a considerable distance away. In 2017, the name changed to Square de Flandre, after a nearby residence. This ended the confusion and gave the station a name rooted in its immediate surroundings. Square de Flandre stands as a testament to the evolution of urban spaces. Located in Hellemmes-Lille, the station offers access to the Hellemmes cemetery, a place of quiet reflection amidst the urban bustle. Interestingly, the station’s entrances are split across Rue Roger-Salengro, an unusual design mirrored by Montebello station on line 2. This division creates a unique dynamic, with one side entirely underground and the other nestled within a building amidst the neighborhood’s houses. Square de Flandre also played a role in the modernization of Lille’s metro system. In 2015, construction began to extend the platforms to accommodate longer, four-car trains. This project, completed in 2018, improved the station’s capacity and efficiency. While Square de Flandre may not house striking artwork, its design is considered art in itself. The station’s functionality and integration into the urban fabric provide a unique aesthetic experience. So, as you stand here at Square de Flandre, remember its journey from a misleading name to one that reflects its true place in Lille’s vibrant tapestry. This seemingly ordinary metro station holds stories of change, modernization, and a touch of urban quirkiness.