Breath of the Earth: A Spectacle of Picardy's History
Experience 20,000 years of Picardy's history come to life in a breathtaking sound and light spectacular at Breath of the Earth in Ailly-sur-Noye.
Breath of the Earth (Le Souffle de la Terre) is a captivating sound and light show held in Ailly-sur-Noye, France, that brings 20,000 years of Picardy's history to life. Performed by hundreds of volunteers, the show is a mesmerizing experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Breath of the Earth
- Espace Pierre Normand chemin d'Altforweiler, Ailly-sur-Noye, 80250, FR
- +33322410690
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- The show is performed outdoors, so dress warmly, especially during cooler evenings. Blankets are available for purchase.
- Arrive early to secure parking, as the event attracts a large audience.
- Consider bringing insect repellent, as the performance is held near a body of water.
- Check the show schedule in advance, as it typically runs from late August to late September on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Getting There
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Train
Ailly-sur-Noye is accessible by train from Paris (Gare du Nord). From the Ailly-sur-Noye train station, the Espace Pierre Normand is approximately a 20-minute walk (about 1.5 km). Follow Rue de la Gare, then turn left onto Chemin d'Altforweiler. Train tickets from Paris to Ailly-sur-Noye typically cost €18-€40. A local bus or taxi can also be taken from the train station to the Espace Pierre Normand.
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Car
If driving, take the A16 or A1 motorway to Ailly-sur-Noye. From the A16, take exit 16 towards Ailly-sur-Noye. Follow the D920 to Chemin d'Altforweiler. There are several free parking areas available near the Espace Pierre Normand. Parking is free. Be aware that on show nights, parking areas can fill up quickly, so arrive early.
Discover more about Breath of the Earth
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Garenne Woods
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Escape to the serene beauty of Garenne Woods in Cagny, France, for peaceful walks, nature observation, and a refreshing outdoor experience.
Nécropole Nationale Saint-Acheul
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Pay tribute to fallen heroes at this solemn French World War I cemetery in Amiens, the final resting place for over 2,700 soldiers.
Église Saint-Acheul d'Amiens
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Discover Amiens' Église Saint-Acheul, a historic church with classical architecture rooted in centuries of faith and local heritage.
Place du Maréchal Joffre
16.1 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Amiens at Place du Maréchal Joffre, where history, culture, and local life beautifully intertwine.
Monument Amiens Otages
16.2 km
Discover the poignant Monument Amiens Otages, a tribute to the city's resilience, nestled in the heart of Amiens on Place du Maréchal Joffre.
Monument à Jules Verne
16.2 km
Amiens landmark honoring Jules Verne, the visionary author of 'Around the World in Eighty Days' and 'Journey to the Center of the Earth'.
Square Aimé Césaire
16.2 km
Find serenity in the city at Square Aimé Césaire, a tribute to a literary giant and a haven for relaxation in Amiens.
Picardy Regional Tourism Committee
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Your starting point for exploring the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the Hauts-de-France region from its central location in Amiens.
CAUE de la Somme
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Amiens Railway Station
16.4 km
Amiens Railway Station: A historical gateway offering connections to major French cities and a glimpse into modernist architecture.
Statue du Général Leclerc
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Amiens memorial honoring General Leclerc, a WWII hero, for his pivotal role in liberating France.
Église catholique du Sacré-Cœur-de-Jésus à Amiens
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Espl. Edouard Branly
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Courthouse
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Église Saint-Honoré d'Amiens
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Amiens' Art Deco gem: Église Saint-Honoré, a symbol of resilience and architectural innovation reborn from wartime destruction.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grounds D'aventure - Accrobranche - Escape Game Laser Game - Archery Game - Bungy Ejection
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Experience high-flying adventure and thrilling outdoor activities at Grounds D'aventure in the heart of the Noye Valley.
Espace mistral
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Parc de la Salamandre
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Escape to Amiens' tranquil Parc de la Salamandre: a green oasis offering relaxation, recreation, and a connection with nature in the heart of the city, open daily.
Archaeological Garden of Saint-Acheul
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Marais des Trois Vaches
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Discover a tranquil urban oasis at Marais des Trois Vaches in Amiens, offering scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful escape just minutes from the city center, currently undergoing enhancements for completion in 2027.
Square Jean Moulin
15.8 km
Escape to the serene beauty of Square Jean Moulin in Amiens, a tranquil city park offering a peaceful retreat amidst vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and a rich historical backdrop.
Clos Alexandre
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Pavillon d'Octroi
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Amiens' Pavillon d'Octroi: A neoclassical tollhouse turned historical monument in Square Jules Verne, a window into the city's 19th-century past.
L'ile Robinson
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Jules Verne House
16.2 km
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Square Arlette Gruss
16.3 km
A peaceful city park in Amiens, named for the famous circus founder, offering a green escape for relaxation and leisure in the heart of the city.
Festival international de jardins | Hortillonnages Amiens - Port à Fumier
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Place Alphonse Fiquet
16.4 km
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Place René Goblet
16.5 km
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Parc René Goblet
16.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Le Moulin Des Ecrevisses
2.3 km
Experience exquisite Haute French cuisine at Le Moulin Des Ecrevisses, where culinary artistry meets elegance in Ailly-sur-Noye.
Aubergade
12.7 km
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Le Cosy restaurant
13.1 km
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FINE BOUCHE
13.7 km
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Restaurant Le Comptoir du Malt Amiens Sud
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L'Auberge du Village
14.5 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at L'Auberge du Village in Conty, where tradition meets culinary excellence in a charming setting.
La Table Du Marais
14.7 km
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Auberge Le Pré Porus
15.8 km
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La Coupole
16.3 km
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L'Estaminet
16.4 km
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L'ESCALE - Restaurant Cuisine Française à Amiens
16.5 km
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Le T'Chiot Zinc
16.5 km
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Le Phare
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Les Petits Bonheurs
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L'improviste
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Avenue 28
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Imagine
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Centre commercial Grand A
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Parfois
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Ceremony's
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Tape à l'œil
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Action
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Tom&Co Amiens
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La Halle
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Vallée Des Vignes rue d'italie
14.8 km
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Le Magasin de Frac Picardie
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Hema
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Le petit Souk Amiens
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The Magical Store - Amiens
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Amiens 2
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hecquet Philippe
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BAR Le Saint-Honoré
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Bar de l'Escalier
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Tower's Pub
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O Paradise
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Experience a vibrant blend of halal cuisine, exotic cocktails, and shisha at O Paradise, the must-visit restaurant in Amiens.
Bar du Midi
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Discover Bar du Midi, Amiens' charming beer hall and coffee shop, offering a delightful range of brews and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Le Bar à Pap'S
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Experience vibrant karaoke nights at Le Bar à Pap'S in Amiens, the perfect blend of fun, music, and local culture.
English Pub
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Experience the warmth and charm of the English Pub in Amiens, where delightful food and a wide selection of drinks await every visitor.
L'hexagone Amiens
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Point Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Point Bar in Amiens, where great drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.
Baobar
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Street café
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Experience the charm of Amiens at this delightful street café, where cozy ambiance meets delicious local flavors.
Le Living
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Couleur Café - Bar à Cocktails Rhumerie Saint Leu Amiens
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Le Rétro
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