Nord-Pas-de-Calais-Picardie is a former administrative region in France, which existed from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2019, before being replaced by the Hauts-de-France region. Here are detailed insights into its history, geography, and socio-economic aspects:
History
- The region was created as part of a broader reform to reduce the number of regions in France from 22 to 13. This merger combined the Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Picardie regions.
- The name Nord-Pas-de-Calais-Picardie was temporary and was officially changed to Hauts-de-France in September 2016 to better reflect the geographical and cultural identity of the area.
Geography
Economy
- Historically known for its coal mining and textile industries, the region has diversified its economy over the years.
- Key sectors include agriculture, with significant production of sugar beet, potatoes, and wheat; industry with a focus on automotive, aerospace, and food processing; and services, particularly retail and logistics due to its strategic location.
- Lille, one of the major cities in the region, serves as a hub for commerce and culture, with a strong emphasis on the tertiary sector.
Culture
- The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, including Flemish influences in the north and Picard traditions in the south.
- Carnival celebrations, especially in Dunkirk, and the Festival de Lille are notable cultural events.
- There is also a significant number of historical sites, including the battlefields of World War I, which attract tourists interested in military history.
Transportation
- It benefits from a well-developed transportation network, including high-speed rail connections like the TGV linking major cities within the region to Paris and other parts of Europe.
- The region is also served by several international airports, with Lille Airport being one of the busiest.
References
See also: