UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Abbeville
France

Abbeville

Paleolithic site with Abbevillian handaxes.

Location

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Historical Context

About

Abbeville is a significant archaeological site located in northern France, known for its rich history and contribution to prehistory. It is renowned for the discovery of Abbevillian handaxes, which are considered some of the earliest European stone tools, dating back to the Lower and Middle Paleolithic periods. The site has evolved through various historical phases, serving as a medieval capital of Ponthieu and playing pivotal roles during significant historical events, such as the Hundred Years' War and both World Wars. Modern archaeological interest in Abbeville is heightened by its historical structures, including churches, marketplaces, and remnants of its industrial past, which collectively narrate a story of human evolution, conflict, and resilience.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Paleolithic Abbevillian handaxes

Lower Paleolithic – Middle Paleolithic

Capital of Ponthieu

1214 CE

Battle of Crécy

1346 CE

Hundred Years' War

1346 CE

Revocation of Edict of Nantes

1685 CE

World War I hospital

1916 CE

World War II occupation

1940 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Military Installations

Barracks
category

Public and Civic Structures

MarketplacesTheatres
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Industrial and Craft Structures

Workshops
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Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches
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Artistic and Decorative Features

StatuesMonuments
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns
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Transportation and Communication Structures

Bridges
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Reference

Details

Country

France

Coordinates

50.11° N, 1.84° E