Airaines (; Picard: Araine) is a commune in the Somme department in Hauts-de-France in northern France.
Geography
The commune is situated north west of Amiens, about south of Abbeville, at the junction of the D901 and D936 roads.
Hamlets and neighbourhoods
- <u>Dourier</u> : Originally a hamlet to the northeast of the town, now a suburb.
- <u>Dreuil-Hamel</u> : Stretching out to the west, sprinkled with orchards and meadows, this commune was once separate. By decree of 26 September 1972 it was joined with Airaines in a simple merger.
Population
History
- In earlier times, the town flourished, due mainly to the importance of the castle of the dukes of Luynes.
- During World War II, the town was subject to much destruction in June 1940. The Market hall was destroyed.
- The years 1985-2000 saw the closure of several important economical activities, resulting in high unemployment
Places and monuments
- Saint-Denis church
- The Priory (Notre Dame church)
- Dreuil-Hamel church, abandoned and in danger of collapsing
- The towers of the dukes of Luynes
- The memorial to Charles N'Tchoréré
- A monument aux morts with sculptural work by Albert Dominique Roze
People
Charles N'Tchoréré (15 November 1896 - 1940) was a Gabonese military commander who was shot by the Germans in World War II during the battle for France.
Twin towns
See also
References
External links
(All French language)