Gravelines

Gravelines is a commune in the Nord department in northern France. It is located on the coast of the English Channel, approximately 20 kilometers west of Dunkirk. The commune is part of the arrondissement of Dunkerque and the canton of Gravelines.

The town is known for its historical significance, particularly during World War I. Gravelines was the site of the Battle of Gravelines, fought on 19 October 1914, which was one of the first major battles of the war. The town was heavily fortified, and its fortifications are still visible today.

Gravelines is also known for its beaches and its role as a tourist destination. The town has a long sandy beach that is popular with both locals and tourists. The commune is also home to several museums, including the Musée de la Bataille de Gravelines, which commemorates the battle of 1914.

The economy of Gravelines is largely based on tourism and fishing. The town is also home to several industrial facilities, including a power plant and a chemical plant. The commune has a population of around 10,000 people.

Gravelines is served by the Gravelines railway station, which is on the Lille-Flandres to Calais-Fréthun railway line. The town is also connected to the national road network by the A16 autoroute.