The city was first settled by the Romans around 40 BC, then called "Caletum." Due to its strategic position, Calais has often been used as a launching pad for French attacks on the English, involved in Franco-English warfare, and has historically always remained an important port city.
Today, Calais is known for its maritime industry, history, lacemaking, fishing, closeness to England, and lighthouse.
People Born in Calais
Calais in People's Lives
Thomas More: I accompanied Thomas Wolsey on a diplomatic mission here in 1521.