FR25 HA Port Museum

Students and teachers are welcomed by the guide who describes in detail the fundamental historical events of the third French port from the seventeenth century on: the various evolution of the city (Vauban fortress, Utrecht treaty) and how, from Iceland, the Dunkirkis have ventured on all seas to fish. The guide tells about the heroic actions of the corsair Jean Bart, a central figure in the history of the city, whose portraits can be admired in the rooms of the museum. She presented the origins of our carnival really famous all over the world which lie in the 17th Century when ship owners held a feast for the fishermen and their families before the men departed for six months to fish off the coast of Iceland – a dangerous job in which many lost their lives. The first documented evidence of this celebration dates back to 1676 and the people of this town have held into the tradition of this carnival with enthusiasm.The second part of the visit promotes the challenge of participating in carnival. Students can recognize the importance of history that has determined the cultural identity of the event. The speaker explained the organisation for a huge festival. They learnt that The Carnavalde Dunkerque takes place over several weeks with a series of weekend balls and processions with bands playing in the town and villages around. The visscherbende represents the fishermen of centuries ago who early each year would be waved off on their voyages to catch cod in Icelandic waters. Students discovered the musicians, how to be dressed, some songs and their significations, the giants Reuze Papa, the way to walk. Over these three days (3 joyeuses) revellers take over the streets dressed in outrageous costumes and carrying coloured umbrellas on long handles – the more outlandish and weird – the more the crowds roar their approval. Finally “Les harengs, les harengs” was presentedas the cue for the Mayor to come out on the balcony of the Belfry  and throw about 450 kg of herring into the gatheredgroups below. Students learnt that the end is the Rigodon on the Jean Bart square.

Following the visit, students show an improved understanding of Dunkirk’s history and its traditions, recognizing figures like Jean Bart and the impact of fishermen influences.. Their increased appreciation for cultural diversity.