マルティンスベルクのおすすめライド

Magnificent fresco inspired by Jean-Claude Servais

My heart's Gaume. All my youth in Gaume.

The current castle is very recent. It was built in 1960 at the request of the owners, the Otreppe de Bouvette family, based on plans by architect Emile Godin. The previous castle was severely damaged in both world wars and fell into disrepair.

Over a period of 22 years, from 1926 to 1948, a completely new abbey was built based on a design by architect Henri Vaes. This was primarily the work of Ghent native Albert-Marie Van der Cruyssen, who became the first abbot in 1936. On August 20, 1929, the foundation stone was laid in the presence of Prince Leopold and Cardinal Van Roey. The new abbey was completed in 1948. On June 5, 1939, the abbey church was consecrated and elevated to Basilica Minor by Pope Pius XII. On September 8, 1948, the abbey church and the completed cloister were solemnly consecrated by Cardinal Micara, who served as Apostolic Nuncio to Belgium from 1923 to 1946 and subsequently became Prefect of the Congregation for Rites. To finance the major construction projects, which by then had already cost tens of millions of Belgian francs, various fundraising activities were initiated. For example, special postage stamps with a surcharge were issued by the Belgian government. The cheese factory (1931) and the brewery (1932) were established to generate the necessary funds, and laypeople were employed from the outset. After the construction work was completed, these proceeds were used for social and charitable purposes. (Wikipedia)

Just before the swamps end, you drive a long stretch over a wooden bridge. It's easy to navigate, and there were no other traffic at all.

Taking the descending road, you reach the archaeological and artistic site of Montauban. A lovely, bucolic spot.

The station is located on the Marbehan to Écouviers line and was in operation from 1873 to 1938.

On the edge of a wooded massif, where the climate is favorable for growing wine, lies Torgny, Belgium's southernmost village. The houses here, built of yellow sandstone with Roman roof tiles, are striking, lending a Mediterranean flair. A truly beautiful sight. No wonder this place is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia.