First mining basin site of Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Anzin is part of the suburbs of Valenciennes. It is therefore on a background of mining past that inspired Emile Zola to write Germinal that the city is unveiled and discovered. His past, full of history and emotions of the black figures, left many traces as well as his conversion in the iron and steel industry until 1970 when everything changed. The growth of the city is cut net and the town, free zone, is now looking for new ways, new business locations to give a second wind to its economic life. Flat country with the wet lands between the valleys of the Scarpe and the Escaut, it offers a landscape unique to the one who discovers the mining basins although everything happened in the basements of the city today definitively condemned. It is therefore a city punctuated by corons and mine pits headlong waiting for you in this North depicted with such emotion by Zola and sung by Pierre Bachelet.
Although many traces of the mining past of the city have been erased, there are still vestiges that will plunge you directly into the atmosphere of Germinal. Starting with the famous corons. If there is not much left, there is still enough to be able to admire a close one. This term referred to the homes of the miners at the time. The last well, that of the Bleuse-Borne is identified thanks to its heap. Other old mine shafts, such as those of Pavé Nord and Pavé Sud, the Avaleresses, the Croix du Nord and the Croix du Sud still have well heads to identify them. You can also see continuing the ride, the castle Dampierre or the porch of the shipyard Mines.
By appointment by contacting the town hall, you will have the opportunity to book a guide for a tour of the city and its mining remains. Among them, the circuit Emile Zola is undoubtedly the most popular. The museum also welcomes you for visits by appointment.
Anzin based its economic redevelopment on the quality of life. As such, it has developed intense cultural programming throughout the year in its theaters, theaters and concerts. The media library is also very active and offers many workshops each month to the population.
Finally, sport is an integral part of the city. Thus, many sports complexes are at your disposal to indulge in your favorite sport. Cross, cycling, tennis, gymnastics, football, handball are some of the activities you can practice in the town. The sports diary is loaded so do not forget your sneakers in your suitcase!
