In the 1600’s, Lillois banker and traders who were fed up with their unhealthy living accommodation agitated to the Magistrate to build them a worthier living quarter. They were gifted what’s possibly the most beautiful bit of architecture in the entire city – 24 identical, ornately decorated three-storied buildings built in Flemish Renaissance style, surrounding an interior rectangular courtyard. Beautiful archways marked with cornucopias on each of the four sides lead into this interior, where on the ground floor, heavy trading once took place.

Though this place once fell into heavy disrepair, it’s been restored to it’s former glory now thanks largely to the efforts of several private enterprises; the names of these sponsors can be spotted right below the second floor windows. Today, it’s no longer used for trading; instead book-lovers flock to the book stalls, flower-lovers flock to the florists, and chess addicts gather for competitions here. Peddler of coins and toys have a place here too.

If you happen to come upon the place on a Sunday evening, the sounds of the local tango will draw you in; it’s a pretty performance by a great number of locals.

Right across the street from this architectural wonder is La Furet du Nord, Europe biggest book shop, originally a fur shop that was converted in 1936, though it kept it’s hairy name. Its 7000 square meters welcomes 12000 visitors daily. The store has recently opened up an online retail division, but adherents swear that absolutely nothing compares to the romance of the actual bookshop and they wouldn’t change it for the world.

• A.k.a the Old Stock Exchange.
• Most sellers don’t arrive till after mid-day so avoid going early in the morning if you can.

• Rihour Subway Staion (Line 1)
• Gare Lille Flandres (Subway 1 &2, Trams R & T)

• Au Chat Bleu
• Omnia, La Creperie
• Le Dracir
• Le 30 Club

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