While Arras's stunning town squares may be reason enough to visit the French town, heading below street level is equally rewarding.
The so-called Boves are a network of labyrinthine galleries and caverns that have been a feature of area since the 10th century.
Originally they served as quarries for constructing the stunning houses and shops above, before being used as simple storage cellars, mainly for wine.
During WWI the underground maze became both an ingenious hiding place for 24,000 allied soldiers, as well as a surprise attack opportunity on German units by linking and extending its reach under the front line.
Visitors can get a taste of this sophisticated tunnel warfare with guided tours departing from the Hotel de Ville.
Combine the subterranean experience with a view from on high by climbing the historic belfry tower, also located in the town hall.
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