Boat Lift In Arques
A unique industrial heritage | Arques
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Welcome to the Fontinettes Boat Lift Interpretation Center
You are now standing at the foot of a historic monument: the Fontinettes Boat Lift, the only one of its kind in France, connecting the Aa River and the Lys River via the Neuffossé Canal. This boat lift, in operation from 1888 to 1967, enabled many vessels to overcome a 13.13-meter difference in elevation in record time, greatly improving navigation for all users.
At the heart of our interpretation center, come discover how this structure—now classified as a historic monument—worked, and travel back in time to 1967. You’ll be guided by Jacques, the last keeper of the Fontinettes Boat Lift, who will share his memories from his final day on the job here, at a place known as “Les Fontinettes.”
Save the Date
The Fontinettes Boat Lift, a symbol of industrial heritage, is the perfect gateway to discover Arques. Regular events and cultural activities bring this historic site to life.
De 0€ à 9€
GUIDED TOUR | Boat lift, Neuffossé canal and Fontinettes lock
ARQUES
In the company of our mediators, explore the outside of the Fontinettes Boat Lift and contemplate the grandeur of the human engineering that made navigation possible on this good old Neuffossé canal, which has seen many barges pass through it!
De 0€ à 15€
GUIDED BOAT TOURS | Les Fontinettes and the river world
ARQUES
On the Neufossé canal, leaving from the Fontinettes boat lift in Arques, discover the history of river navigation and life on the canals.
De 0€ à 5.9€
FREE VISIT | Audio-guided tour of the boat lift
ARQUES
Unlock the secrets of the Fontinettes boat lift, a jewel of industrial architecture. Go back in time to discover the history of this monument, the only one of its kind in France.
