Beauvais

Beauvais is a commune and the prefecture of the Oise department in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. It lies approximately 80 kilometers north of Paris, on the Thérain River, and serves as an administrative and commercial center for the surrounding area.

The town has roots dating to the Gallo-Roman era and grew in the Middle Ages around its bishopric and market activity. Its most prominent landmark is the Cathedral of Saint Peter, known as Notre-Dame de Beauvais, a major example of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral became famous for its ambitious vaulting, which reached extreme heights before collapses halted further construction.

Beauvais has historically been associated with agriculture and textiles, with the economy evolving toward services, light manufacturing, and logistics. The city is served by Beauvais–Tillé Airport, which offers seasonal and regular international connections, and by rail links to Paris and other cities. It is linked by the A16 motorway to regional towns and Paris.

Culturally, Beauvais preserves a historic urban core with medieval streets, churches, and civic buildings. The city hosts museums, libraries, and venues for theatre and music that reflect its regional heritage and Gothic legacy. The population is around 60,000 inhabitants.