Travel destination Namur
Namur - A charming city with a lot to offer
Namur, the capital of the Walloon Region and the province of Namur, is a city of great historical significance and cultural diversity. With a population of approximately 114,007 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2024), it is a vibrant center in Belgium.
Geography and climate Namur is located at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers and is surrounded by various landscapes: Hesbaye in the north, Condroz in the southeast, and Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse in the southwest. This location has made Namur an important military and commercial center since Roman times.
History Namur's history stretches back to Celtic times, when it was a significant trading post. The Romans established a presence here after Julius Caesar defeated the local Aduatuci tribe. In the early Middle Ages, the Merovingians constructed a castle or citadel on the rocky outcrop overlooking the city where the two rivers converge. In the 10th century, Namur became an independent county.
Sights Namur is renowned for its impressive citadel, which perches on a hill overlooking the city and boasts a long military history. The fortress has been rebuilt and reinforced several times over the centuries, particularly during the reign of Louis XIV and later under the direction of Vauban, the famous French military engineer. Other architectural gems include the theater, the belfry, the churches, and the archaeological museum, all of which are worth visiting.
Education and Culture Namur is also a university city with the University of Namur, which plays a significant role in the Belgian educational landscape. The city is home to the Walloon Parliament, the Walloon Government, and its administration.
Economy Namur's economy is diverse, encompassing services, education, trade, and industry. Its strategic location on two rivers has fostered the development of trade and industry.
Transportation Namur has excellent transport links. It has an extensive road and rail network that connects the city to other parts of Belgium and Europe. The port of Namur plays an important role in goods transport on the Meuse.
Namur is a city that preserves its history while looking to the future. It offers a blend of historical heritage and modern lifestyle, making it a fascinating place for both visitors and locals alike. With its charming old town, picturesque riverbanks, and vibrant cultural scene, Namur is a jewel in the Walloon Region and a reflection of Belgian diversity.
Pictures from Namur:
I recommend renting a holiday home for your trip to Belgium, you can best do this here:
Must-see attractions in Namur
Namur, the capital of Wallonia, is a charming city with a rich history and culture. Nestled at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers and surrounded by picturesque hills, Namur offers visitors a wealth of sights and activities. These include:
Citadel of Namur: This is one of the largest and most impressive fortresses in Europe. Built in the 12th century and expanded several times over the centuries, the citadel now houses a museum, a theater, and several viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the city.
Saint-Aubain Cathedral: This Baroque cathedral, built in the 18th century, is one of the city's landmarks. It houses a number of works of art, including a painting by Peter Paul Rubens.
Museum of Ancient Arts of Namur: This museum houses a collection of art from Namur and the surrounding area, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.
Félicien Rops Museum: Dedicated to the life and work of Belgian artist Félicien Rops, who was born in Namur in the 19th century.
Annevoie Gardens: Located about 20 km from Namur, this beautiful landscaped garden is laid out in the French style and features a number of sculptures, fountains, and ponds.
Things to do in Namur
Beyond its many sights, Namur also offers a wide range of activities for visitors. These include:
Hiking and biking: The surroundings of Namur are perfect for hiking and biking. There are numerous well-marked trails that wind through forests, fields, and along the Meuse River.
Boat trips: Various boat trips are offered on the Meuse River, including sightseeing tours and excursions to nearby villages.
Canoeing and kayaking: The Meuse River is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. There are several rental companies that offer boats and equipment.
Fishing: The Meuse River and the surrounding rivers and lakes are great for fishing.
Gastronomy: Namur offers a wide selection of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. The city is also known for its breweries.
Conclusion Namur
Namur was a pleasant surprise. Not only is the city beautifully situated, but it also offers a wide range of attractions and activities.
I was particularly impressed by:
The Citadel: The Citadel is an impressive structure with breathtaking views of the city.
Saint-Aubain Cathedral: This Baroque cathedral is a true gem, housing some valuable works of art.
The Gardens of Annevoie: This landscaped garden is a paradise for nature lovers and offers peace and relaxation.
The range of activities: In Namur, you can do a lot, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing.
The gastronomy: The city offers a wide selection of restaurants where you can enjoy local and international cuisine.
Namur is a city that everyone should visit at least once. I can recommend it to anyone looking for a varied and relaxing vacation.
Additional thoughts:
The atmosphere: Namur has a very pleasant atmosphere. The people are friendly and helpful, and the city is clean and well-maintained.
The location: Namur is an ideal starting point for excursions in the surrounding area. Many other beautiful cities and villages are worth visiting nearby.
The value for money: Compared to other European cities, Namur is relatively inexpensive. So you can have a great vacation here without spending a lot of money.
I'm sure I'll be back to Namur again. There's still so much to discover in this fascinating city!