Namur, Belgium
Region: Namur
Geographic Coordinates: 50.466700, 4.866700
Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 30.0°C (14°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 110939
Language: French
Namur is a charming and historic city located in the southern part of Belgium. It is the capital of both the province of Namur and the Wallonia region, Offering visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The city sits at the confluence of two rivers, Meuse and Sambre, Which adds to its picturesque beauty. The city’s history dates back to Roman times when it was an important trading center. Namur has been ruled by various powers throughout history, Including French, Spanish, Dutch, And Austrian rulers.
This rich history has left its mark on the city’s architecture with many impressive buildings dating back to different periods. One such example is the Citadel of Namur which sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The fortress dates back to medieval times but was rebuilt in 1692 by Vauban during Louis XIV’s reign as King of France. Today it serves as a museum where visitors can learn about its fascinating past while enjoying panoramic views over Namur. Another must-visit attraction in Namur is Saint Aubin’s Cathedral which dates back to the 18th century.
The cathedral features stunning Baroque architecture with intricate carvings and ornate stained glass windows that are sure to leave visitors awestruck. Namur also boasts several museums that showcase different aspects of Belgian culture and history such as Musée Félicien Rops which displays works by one of Belgium’s most famous artists or Musée Provincial des Arts Anciens du Namurois where visitors can explore local art from medieval times until today. For those looking for outdoor activities, There are plenty of options in Namur too!
Visitors can take a stroll along one of several riverfront promenades or hike through nearby forests like Bois de la Vecquée or Bois de la Marlagne. Cycling enthusiasts will love exploring scenic routes like RAVeL network that connects different parts around Wallonia region. Namur is also known for its gastronomy scene with plenty of restaurants serving local delicacies such as escargots de Namur (snails in garlic butter) or boulets à la liégeoise (meatballs in a sweet sauce). Visitors can also enjoy some of Belgium’s famous beers at one of the many bars and pubs scattered throughout the city.
Namur is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture, Nature and gastronomy. Whether you’re interested in exploring its ancient fortresses or enjoying scenic walks along the riverfront promenades, There’s something for everyone in this charming Belgian city.
- Citadel of Namur
- Saint Aubin’s Cathedral
- Félicien Rops Museum
- Terra Nova Visitor Centre
- Belfry of Namur
- Parc Attractif Reine Fabiola
- Musée Provincial des Arts Anciens du Namurois
- Jambes Bridge
- Le Grognon Archeological Site and Museum
- Eglise Saint-Loup
- Food and beverage production: Namur is renowned for its production of beer, chocolate, and other food products.
- Chemicals: The city has a robust chemical industry with companies like Solvay having a significant presence there.
- Healthcare: Namur boasts several hospitals, clinics, as well as pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis.
- Tourism: The city is a popular tourist destination thanks to its historical architecture and picturesque location on the Meuse River.
- Education: Namur is home to several universities and higher education institutions like the University of Namur.
- Logistics: Due to its central location in Europe, the city serves as an essential transportation hub for goods moving across the continent.
- Construction: Numerous construction firms operate in Namur specializing in building both residential and commercial properties.
- IT services: Several IT service providers have offices within the city offering services ranging from software development to network management.
- The Battle of Namur was a significant event during World War I, resulting in the capture of the city by the German army and causing severe damage to its fortifications.
- Félicien Rops, born in Namur in 1833, was a renowned Belgian artist famous for his satirical and erotic works that often commented on social and political issues.
- Ely Sée, born in Namur in 1864, served as Belgium’s Prime Minister from 1925 to 1926.
- The Citadel of Namur is an ancient fortress with a rich history dating back to the Roman era that played an important role during both World Wars.
- Jean-Michel Saive is considered one of Belgium’s greatest athletes ever due to his successful career as a professional table tennis player who won numerous medals throughout his career. He was born in Namur in 1969.
- Saint Aubin’s Cathedral is an iconic landmark located in Namur that dates back to the early Middle Ages.
- Joseph Antoine Ferdinand Plateau was a Belgian physicist who invented the phenakistoscope – an early device used for displaying moving images – and was born near Namur in 1801.
- Charles de Lorraine-Austrasia was an Austrian prince who served as governor-general of the Austrian Netherlands (present-day Belgium) from 1744 until his death in 1780.
- Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone, spent much time living with relatives near Namur during his childhood before moving to Brussels when he became a young adult.
- Jean-Claude Van Damme is a famous actor and martial artist known for starring roles such as Bloodsport (1988) and Timecop (1994). Although he was born Berchem-Sainte-Agathe, Van Damme spent much time growing up in Namur.
- Citadel of Namur is a historical fortress that provides stunning views of the city.
- The Félicien Rops Museum is dedicated to showcasing the works of Belgian artist, Félicien Rops.
- Musée des Arts Anciens du Namurois is a museum that displays ancient art and artifacts from the region.
- Espace Saint-Jacques is an art center that hosts contemporary exhibitions and events.
- Hôtel de Ville de Namur is a beautiful town hall that dates back to the 17th century.
- Saint-Aubin’s Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral with intricate stained glass windows.
- Jardin d’Annevoie features cascading fountains and waterfalls, making it a picturesque garden to visit.
- Musée Provincial des Arts et Traditions Populaires de Namur showcases traditional arts, crafts, and customs unique to the region.
- The Belfry Tower in Gembloux offers panoramic views over Gembloux and is worth visiting as well!
- La Citadelle De Dinant located just outside of Namur in Dinant offers breathtaking views over River Meuse and has great historical significance as well!
- Basket Namur Capitale: A professional basketball team founded in 1953, the team has won the Belgian Cup twice and the Belgian League once.
- Royal Francs Borains: Founded in 1909, this football club plays in the Belgian Third Division and has won several regional championships.
- Union Royale Namur: Established in 1924, this football club plays in the Belgian Fourth Division and has also won numerous regional championships.
- Royal Namur Hockey Club: Founded back in 1912, this field hockey club competes at the top division of field hockey within Belgium and has achieved multiple national titles.
- Royal Racing Club de Boitsfort-Namur: This rugby union club was created from two merged clubs – Racing Club de Boitsfort and Rugby Club Namurois – back in 2007. The team competes at a national level and plays home matches at Stade Communal de Boitsfort.
- Namur en Mai is a cultural festival that takes place in May and features music, dance, theater, and street performances.
- Fêtes de Wallonie is a celebration of Walloon culture that occurs in September with parades, concerts, and traditional food and drink.
- Festival International du Film Francophone de Namur (FIFF) is an international film festival that showcases French-language films from around the world.
- Fête des Solidarités is a solidarity festival held in September that promotes social justice and equality through music, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Les Nuits d’Encre is a literary festival held in November that brings together authors from Belgium and beyond to discuss their work and host readings.
- Namur Capitale de la Bière is a beer festival held in June where visitors can sample a variety of local beers while enjoying live music and food trucks.
- Les Rendez-vous de l’Erdre à Namur is a jazz festival held every two years featuring local Belgian musicians as well as international acts.
- La Foire Agricole de Namur is an agricultural fair held annually in October where farmers showcase their products including cheese, meats, fruits & vegetables etc..
- Boulets Liégeois: This is a traditional Belgian dish consisting of meatballs served with a sweet and sour sauce made from apples and onions. One of the best places to try this dish in Namur is at Le Pain Quotidien.
- Waterzooi: This is a stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, cream, and herbs. It’s often served with potatoes or bread. Restaurant La Table de Suzy is known for its delicious waterzooi.
- Frites: Belgian fries are famous all over the world for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. One of the best places to try them in Namur is at Friterie Chez Nino.
- Carbonnade Flamande: This hearty beef stew is cooked slowly with beer, onions, and spices until it’s tender and flavorful. You can find this dish at many traditional Belgian restaurants in Namur such as L’Atelier des Augustins.
- Waffles: Belgium is known for its waffles which are light, crispy on the outside but soft on the inside topped with whipped cream or chocolate sauce or fruit toppings like strawberries! Maison Dandoy has some of the best waffles in town!
- Moules-frites : Mussels cooked in white wine & shallots served alongside fries are another popular delicacy that you must try when visiting Namur! Le Pain Quotidien serves some amazing Moules-Frites!
- Tarte au riz : A rice pudding tart that originated from Huy near Liege has become quite popular throughout Belgium including Namur! You can find it at Aux Gaufres de Bruxelles.
- Les escargots à la namuroise : Snails stuffed with garlic butter & parsley baked to perfection are another delicacy that you shouldn’t miss while exploring Namur! You can find them at Le Grill des Tanneurs.
- Citadel of Namur: This historic fortress offers stunning views of the city and Meuse River.
- Parc Louise-Marie: Enjoy a peaceful walk through this park that features walking paths, a pond, and a playground.
- Jardin des Plantes de Namur: Explore various plant species from around the world at this botanical garden.
- Tresor de Prieure d’Oignies: Discover artifacts from the medieval era at this archaeological museum.
- Les Bains de Dinant: Relax with wellness treatments at this thermal spa.
- La Plante Sports Center: Stay active indoors with soccer fields, basketball courts, and a fitness center.
- Domaine Provincial De Chevetogne: Have fun outdoors with hiking trails, fishing ponds, mini-golf courses, and playgrounds for children in this large park.
- Parc Attractif Reine Fabiola: Experience amusement park rides for all ages including roller coasters, water slides, and bumper cars.
- Musee Felicien Rops: View works by Belgian artist Felicien Rops who specialized in erotic art during the 19th century at this art museum.
- Lesse Kayak Rentals & Tours – Dinant Adventure Park: Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking tours on Lesse river or rock climbing or zip lining etc.. at this adventure center offering different options to choose from!
