Namur : a historical promenade at the heart of French-speaking Wallonia

South-East of the Belgian capital, Namur is located at the confluence of the Sambre and the Meuse, two small rivers offering nice cruises. This city, proudly cultivating its French-speaking inhabitants, features an impressive patrimony. Amongst the must-see touristic sites to discover, the Parliament of Wallonia deserves the detour, just like the ascension all the way to the top of the Medieval citadel.

French-speaking strolls in Wallonia

This regional capital features many assets as host of the International Festival of French-Speaking Films, but Fairground Arts and Music Festivals are also in the running. The city is well-known for the originality of its bridges, viaducts and gangways, linking the two river embankments. As for the historical centre, it is nestled between the Place d'Armes and the Saint-Aubain cathedral.

Dating back to the Roman era, the Pont de Jambes bridge is the main link between the two sides of Wallonia's capital. © OTN

With more than 1000 boutiques in the pedestrian areas, midtown is nicknamed « an open sky mall ». © OTN

A permanent cultural agenda

Painting and sculpture buffs will have open doors in the 12 museums, before watching the folklore parades or strolling through the old streets lined with the handsome facades of private mansions dating back to the 17th century. During their stay, epicureans will certainly meet up in the restaurants of Namur to joyfully celebrate local specialties…

Weighing 6 tons, the statue of sculptor Jan Fabre, representing a flying turtle, is one of the tourist symbols of Namur. © DR

Staying there

At the Château de Namur. This charming 4 star venue in a beautiful setting, created in 1903, is located in a lush park. Its gastronomic table, the copious brunch, the deluxe suites and the voluptuous Spa will surely allow you to spend very pleasant moments. www.chateaudenamur.com

The prestigious vehicles, parked near the hotel, are a tell-tale sign of its upscale clientele… © DR