Picardie travel guide

Picardie is a region located in the northern part of Paris, encompassing the departments of Aisne, Oise, and Somme, with its capital being Amiens. The name "Picardy" derives from "picard," which means "digger" or "hard worker" in French, and is also a reference to the region's historical reputation for being a place of toil and study. The geographical features of Picardy are also distinct, with the "true" Picardy being an open and flat landscape, serving as a theater of conflict during the bloody Somme offensive in World War I. The southern part of the region, which was historically part of the Île-de-France region, features rolling hills and lush forests, providing a stark contrast to the flatness of the northern plains.

The history of Picardy is rich and diverse, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. The region was once home to a vibrant Celtic culture and was later conquered by the Romans. During the Middle Ages, Picardy was a center of power and influence, with several important cities such as Amiens and Reims flourishing under the rule of the Duchy of France. The region played a pivotal role in several historical conflicts, including the Hundred Years' War and the Napoleonic Wars, and was also the site of intense military action during World War I.

Today, Picardy is known for its agricultural products, including wheat, sugar beet, and cattle breeding. The region also has a strong industrial base, with sectors such as automobile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food processing being particularly prominent. Additionally, Picardy is a popular tourist destination, with its historical cities, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage attracting visitors from around the world.