Picardy, Historical region north of Paris, France.
Picardy is a historical region in northern France that spreads across three administrative units and sits north of the capital. The flat land shows wide fields with small forests in between and ends at a short stretch of coast along the English Channel.
The territory developed as a separate area in the 13th century and was integrated into French administration in the 14th century. During World War I, the region saw heavy fighting that destroyed many towns and villages.
Local markets in summer sell fresh vegetables and cheese from the wide fields of the area. Small villages with brick churches mark the flat land between the larger towns.
Trains run regularly from Paris to the larger towns in the region, while motorways provide direct connections for travelers from Belgium and Britain. The flat countryside is good for cycling, with quiet country roads connecting individual places.
Along the coast, large groups of migratory birds pass through the wetlands of the bay twice a year. Some places still keep old looms in small museums that recall the former textile industry.
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