The agricultural occupation of the territory has shaped the landscapes of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, with its relief, fertile soil, and favourable climate. Having played an historic role in traditional dairy farming, today it is the 5th-largest French dairy region. The region is so proud of its cheeses that it has many cheese-based dishes such as this Maroilles pie, the smell of which overpowers the flavour of the dish. Maroilles has a much stronger smell than taste. Here you can also find Boulette d’Avesnes, Pavé fermier à l’échalote, Brique de Flandres and Vieux-Lille, named after the town where it was created.