Valenciennes

Valenciennes is a commune situated in the Nord department of the Hauts-de-France region in northern France, nestled on the banks of the Scheldt (Escaut) river. The city's history is marked by its strategic importance, religious developments, and periods of significant conflict and rebuilding.

Early History and Religious Significance

Following its passage to the Duchy of Lower Lotharingia in 923, Valenciennes began its development. A pivotal moment in its religious history occurred in 1259 when it hosted a General Chapter of the Dominican Order. At this gathering, Thomas Aquinas, alongside other masters, played a key role in establishing a novel program of studies (ratio studiorum) for the Order. This innovation notably incorporated the study of philosophy, which was a significant new element for those not yet fully trained in theology, thus initiating the tradition of Dominican scholastic philosophy.

Periods of Conflict and Political Shift

By the mid-16th century, Valenciennes had become an early center of Calvinism and, in 1562, was the scene of the first resistance against the persecution of Protestants in the Spanish Netherlands. This period was followed by intense conflict, including an iconoclastic attack in 1566 and a subsequent siege and repression in 1567. The city was later occupied by the army of Louis of Nassau in 1572 but was recaptured by the Duke of Alba. Throughout the 17th century, Valenciennes endured further sieges, including one in 1656, and was eventually captured by the armies of Louis XIV in 1677. The Treaty of Nijmegen in 1678 formally placed Valenciennes and the surrounding southern part of Hainault under French control.

Modern History and Reconstruction

In 1793, the city faced a siege by the First Coalition against Revolutionary France. The 20th century brought further devastation, with the German army occupying Valenciennes during World War I, leading to the Battle of Valenciennes in 1918. The city suffered almost complete destruction during World War II and has since been largely rebuilt, notably in concrete.

Notable Surviving Structures and Economic Identity

Despite the extensive destruction, several historical monuments have survived, including the façade of the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), the Basilica of Notre-Dame du Saint-Cordon, and La Maison Espagnole, a remnant of the Spanish occupation. The Dodenne Tower also stands as a testament to its medieval fortifications. Historically, Valenciennes was renowned for its lace production, and until the 1970s, steel and textiles were dominant industries. Today, the region's economy has diversified, with a focus on automobile production, and it serves as the headquarters for the European Railway Agency.