The original Vrijthof used to be partly occupied by a walled cemetery (traces of the cemetery wall were partly found during the excavations for the fountain). In 1850 the cemetery was moved to Witte Torenstraat. The name Vrijthof still refers to the cemetery. The area between the current town hall and the cemetery was occupied by a square with trees. In 2005, a water street with a central fountain was built on the square. The water refers to the old well that was already there in 1532. In the 19th century, the wells were replaced by cast-iron city pumps. The arrival of the water pipes has unfortunately ensured that all city pumps have disappeared.
Source: bree.be

Translated by Google •

An 🇧🇪

February 22, 2025

Today, the Vrijthof is a pleasant square where you can relax on a bench or terrace and enjoy your free time. However, the name Vrijthof refers to the walled cemetery that used to occupy part of the square. In the area between the current city hall and the cemetery, there were trees and from 1532 there was also a well here that was replaced by a water pump in the course of the 18th century. Water was essential for survival and was therefore given a central place in the heart of the city. The city pump has been gone for years now, but water remains present on the Vrijthof in the form of a water street with low foam heads. In the summer, many barefoot people walk through this street to cool off. Young visitors to the square usually also have a great time in the circular part of the fountain with higher water jets that are illuminated in the evening. Despite the sober appearance of the square, a lot of technical equipment is located underground and in the cellars under the Vrijthof.

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Elevation 50 m

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Location: Bree, Maaseik, South Limburg, Flanders, Belgium

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