A bloodthirsty villain, a valiant hero, and a woman in distress – halfway between a passage from Greek mythology and an episode of Game of Thrones, the legend unfolds that Lille was born from a mythical battle between the giant Phinaert and Prince Lyderic. The prince sought to avenge his father and liberate his people from the monster's terror and violence.

As expected, Prince Lyderic emerged victorious, and thus, Lille was born.

Swiftly transforming into a commercial crossroads, the city attracted traders from across Europe, facilitating the exchange of wood, spices, and foodstuffs. Lille, truly a European city, experienced occupation by the Spanish, Dutch, and Austrians. Despite its tumultuous history, it cultivated a rich culture.

However, the people of Lille remained steadfastly loyal to France, symbolised by the installation of the Column of the Goddess at the heart of the Grande Place in 1845. Perhaps their affection for Haussmannian architecture and French-style hôtels particuliers played a role in this loyalty.

After the ravages of two world wars, which significantly impacted Lille and its residents during the German occupation, the city expanded. Becoming a prefecture, Lille forged stronger links with Paris. With the introduction of the TGV, an airport, France's second-largest river port, and the Channel Tunnel, Lille firmly established itself on the map of European metropolises.

Today, its dynamism, rich history, and warm-hearted inhabitants are rapidly propelling Lille to the status of one of Europe's most attractive cities.