Bergues Canal

The Canal de Bergues (French pronunciation: [kanal də bɛʁɡ]) is one of the oldest canals in Flanders, its course being shown on a map dating from the 9th century, connecting Bergues to the port of Dunkerque, in northern France.

The town itself, heavily fortified by Vauban in the late 17th century, is the main attraction for boats, which moor in a dramatic location just outside the fortified walls.

The site acquired worldwide fame in 2008 as the location for the cult film Bienvenue chez les Ch'tis.

The local Ch'ti dialect and out-of-tune belfry chimes contributed to making the town a destination for tourists.

Bergues remains a there-and-back excursion for visiting boats.