Lille, << leel >> (pop. 232,440; met. area pop. 1,187,824), is a city in northern France. Tourists visit Lille for its art museums, restored Flemish buildings, cultural events, and lively restaurants and cafes. Once a major industrial city, Lille is known for its computer services, food production, and universities. With access to Eurostar, a high-speed railway in Europe, Lille is also a business and travel center.
The Flemish founded Lille around 1030. The city passed to France and then to Spain. Lille became known for its prosperous textile industry. The Treaty of Utrecht in 1713 restored Lille to France. German troops captured and occupied Lille during World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945), which brought extensive damage to the city.
After World War II, Lille was restored and developed into an important cultural city. Attractions include the Palais des Beaux-Arts, an art museum; the Place du General de Gaulle, a popular gathering place; and numerous churches, museums, and markets.
