Senlis : roots and future

The personality of Senlis has been shaped by two thousand years of history. From Antiquity to the present day, countless people have walked across its cobblestones, from the humblest character to the highest in the land. Hugues Capet, many stonemasons, Séraphine and the barrel-makers, everyone has left their mark and has contributed to forming the town's soul. The passage of time and the addition of new buildings have not altered the particular charm of its streets and its ancient dwellings, with the patina of centuries imprinted on their walls. Each stone seems to have a story to tell.

History comes alive in these streets : the town is like a living theatre, celebrated as a backdrop for films, its ancient vaults resounding to the notes of celestial concerts, its public spaces enlivened by powerful artistic works. But Senlis is also an active economic zone, with busy trading areas and many sporting and scholastic establishments : here history is also conjugated in the present tense.

This book sets out to help you discover the town's treasures, to encourage you to visit them or to take a second look, for towns are like people : they are born, they grow, and they evolve while remaining true to their natures.

The ring of steps on cobblestone echoes in its streets from dawn till dusk, echoes of generations of passers-by. Seeped in history, houses sit calmly in their streets, exhaling a soothing and rejuvenating atmosphere as they look towards their compass needle, the cathedral spire, centre of the three forests that surround the town like a verdant corona, a leafy reflection of its Roman walls.

The touchable surface of its cobbletones, alluring silver domes, and the rough texture of its pale yellow stones invite the visitor to explore, to discover everything there is to see here.

Senlis, moved by its inhabitants, on every level and in every area, has gradually become a benchmark for quality of life.

A feminine, intimate, protective, and innovative city, far from the impatient frenzy of immediacy, it has remained a serene haven for families, for women and men.

A crucible of French history, Senlis has retained its historical status throughout its history.