Here in Wambrechies, just 7 kilometers north of Lille, lies a town with a fascinating story. Wambrechies is also 10 kilometers from the Belgian border. It’s a place locals affectionately call “the City of Genièvre.”
Wambrechies invites you to explore its charming waterside setting. Imagine taking leisurely strolls through the countryside. Picture yourself riding vintage trams or drifting along on a barge. You might even see old boats!
But where does the name Wambrechies come from? The name comes from old Germanic dialects. “Wambreck” means “sterile,” “uncultivated,” or “fallow.” This makes sense because the land was once hard to farm. Frequent floods from the Deûle River made cultivation difficult.
Although texts mention Wambrechies from the 12th century, the parish is older. A significant boost came when Jeanne de Constantinople, Countess of Flanders, had the lower Deûle canalized from Lille to Deûlémont. Back then, Wambrechies was the only place north of Lille to cross the river. It had the first structure on the waterway to overcome the initial elevation change.
The town showcases regional culture. Architect Charles Maillard from Tourcoing left his mark here. Martel Obert, Viscount of Quévy, dedicated much of his life and fortune to transform Wambrechies’ center. He envisioned a real town square. In 1859, he submitted the plans for the town hall. Today, “Mairie 1868” houses the wedding hall on the first floor.
The church in Wambrechies also has a story. It was rebuilt from 1860. This replaced the old 14th-century church that burned down during the religious wars. Charles Leroy, who designed the Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral in Lille, designed this church. Martel Obert, the mayor at the time, decided to use his wealth to rebuild the church. The church opens during Deûle en fête, Heritage Days, on Fridays, and on Sunday afternoons between April 15 and October 15.
Did you know that the first pharmacy in Wambrechies didn’t appear until the late 19th century? The pharmacy’s interior is fully decorated. It features carved cabinets and shelving with traditional symbols of the profession.
The Château de Robersart also has a history. It housed the last lords of Wambrechies. Martel Obert, Viscount of Quévy, was mayor for 39 years. He funded much of the construction of the 1868 town hall and the church. Juliette de Robersart, the last countess, died at the château in 1900. She gave her name to the château. The town bought the neglected château for a symbolic franc in 1982.
For a unique experience, AMITRAM offers trips along the Deûle. Ride in tourist trams from the early 20th century. These trams are listed as historical monuments. The association also provides tram rides for weddings and family celebrations.
Want to uncover more secrets? The Val de Deûle and Lys Tourist Office offers guided tours of Wambrechies.
So, as you wander through Wambrechies, remember its layers of history. From its watery origins to its architectural gems, this town offers a delightful escape.