スマーニュ周辺のアトラクション＆必見スポット - トップ20

The MN18 Observation Bunker is part of the first line of defense of the Position Fortifiée de Liège (PFL), a network of bunkers built in the 1930s to defend Belgium against a German invasion. MN18 was the 18th bunker in the Margarins-Neufchâteau sector and equipped with an FM turret, recognizable by its tapered shape. During the German attack in May 1940, the bunker was destroyed by a 50 kg shaped charge placed on top of the turret, just where the periscope was located. The damage is still visible, making MN18 a tangible reminder of World War II. Right next to the bunker is the Knuppelstock orientation table, an impressive work of blue limestone with a diameter of 1.5 meters and weighing approximately one ton. The relief of the surrounding landscape is engraved on it based on data from the National Geographic Institute, with bronze details indicating the visible points. The table is also accessible for the visually impaired thanks to its tactile elements. The project, carried out by local organizations such as Qualité-Village-Wallonie and the municipality of Aubel, is unique in Belgium.

At this point, history and landscape converge. The MN18 observation bunker, a silent witness to the Second World War, still stands as a reminder of a turbulent period. From the bunker, you also have a unique view of the surrounding hilly landscape. Next to the bunker is the Knuppelstock orientation table, a platform that indicates the names and directions of villages, hills, and landmarks in the area. It's an ideal spot to get to know the region better and to enjoy a panoramic view of the border area between the Netherlands and Belgium.

After the lock this is a beautiful but busy harbour/mooring place.

The castle's origins date back to the 11th century. It was first documented in 1155, but the first buildings probably date back to the time of Bishops Henry of Verdun (1075–1091) and Otbert (1091–1119). As one of twelve residences of the Prince-Bishop of Liège, it served to defend the eastern border of the principality.

Here you can see the famous geese of Visé

Here you can read some history about these famous stairs in different languages before you climb them.

Restaurant in the former harbour master's office

Franchimont: a former fortress of the Bishop of Liège in the north of the Belgian Ardennes. The castle of Franchimont (province of Liège, municipality of Theux) was one of twelve residences and fortresses of the Principality of Liège. The fortress was first mentioned in writing in 1155, but the first buildings were probably built during the time of the bishops Henry of Verdun (1075-1091) and Otbert (1091-1119). During the feudal period, both bishops vigorously defended the principality. Nestled in the middle of "non-Liège" territories (Duchy of Limburg and Luxembourg, as well as the Principality of Stavelot), the country thus had not only a defense system, but also an administrative and judicial center where the representative of the Prince-Bishop resided. The castle defended a mark, a kind of border