Louise de Bettignie square

Place Louise de Bettignies

The Lille audio-guided tour takes you to the fine Place Louise de Bettignies, which pays tribute to a too little-known figure of history. Behind this name hides a woman with an extraordinary destiny and exemplary courage.

A spy of the Great War

Louise de Bettignies was a spy in the service of the Allies during the First World War, delivering to the British secret services intelligence of capital importance. She is said to have even announced the attack on Verdun, without being believed. Arrested by the occupier, she met a tragic fate in captivity. The square that bears her name perpetuates with gravity the memory of this heroine of the North, to be evoked with respect.

What there is to see

The square, lined with fine façades, offers a pleasant setting in the heart of old Lille. Beyond its architecture, it invites you to remember the journey of Louise de Bettignies and of all those who resisted in the shadows during the war. It is a stop that combines urban charm and the duty of memory, to be discovered along the walk.

Practical information

Place Louise de Bettignies is in old Lille, near Rue de Gand. It is a public space freely accessible at all hours and on the level, to be discovered along the walk in the old district.

Who was Louise de Bettignies?

A spy in the service of the Allies during the First World War, a heroine of the North arrested by the occupier and who died in captivity.

Where is Place Louise de Bettignies?

In old Lille, near Rue de Gand, in the heart of the historic district of the city.