BBC JOURNALISTS. Fountain Pen Newspaper by Author Winter Breshna.

  Hôtel de Ville, Valenciennes. The Historic Town Hall of Valenciennes, Nord, France. Based on Historical Events and Architectural Heritage. Written by Fountain Pen Newspaper Author Winter Breshna. PAGE ONE — THE HEART OF VALENCIENNES In the centre of Valenciennes, in northern France, stands the historic Hôtel de Ville de Valenciennes , the city's Town Hall. Located on the Place d'Armes , it has served as a centre of municipal life for centuries and remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The building was designated a French historic monument in 2001. [en.wikipedia.org] , [fr.wikipedia.org] For generations, citizens, officials, merchants, and visitors have passed before its impressive façade. PAGE TWO — A MEDIEVAL BEGINNING The origins of municipal government in Valenciennes date back to the Middle Ages. Historical records indicate that local civic administration occupied the site from at least the early twelfth century. The city's aldermen and civic lea...