Mons, Belgium

Welcome to Mons, the capital of the province of Hainaut in Wallonia, Belgium. This historic city has a rich past, having been fortified by Count Baldwin IV of Hainaut in the 12th century. Mons rapidly became a centre of trade and industry, with the Industrial Revolution and coal mining playing a major role in its development. Today, Mons is an important university town and commercial centre. The main square, with its stunning architecture and charming cafes, is the heart of the city. Mons was the European Capital of Culture in 2015, and it’s not hard to see why. From its fascinating history to its vibrant culture, there’s so much to discover in this enchanting Belgian city.

One of the key events in Mons’ history was the Battle of Mons, which took place in 1914 during World War I. The British Army was forced to retreat by the German forces, and the town remained occupied until its liberation by the Canadian Corps. Today, visitors can see several memorial placards related to the battles, paying tribute to the brave soldiers who fought and lost their lives.

The Ducasse de Mons or Doudou is a famous week-long series of festivities that takes place every year on Trinity Sunday. This event has its roots in the 14th century and features a colourful procession with over a thousand costumed participants. Highlights include the Car d’Or, which carries the reliquary of Saint Waltrude, and the Lumeçon fight, where Saint George confronts the dragon. The tradition of the processional dragon is listed among the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Mons is home to several public educational facilities, including the University of Mons and the Conservatoire royal de Mons. There are also excellent transport links, with the city being located along the N56 road and accessed via European route E42. Mons railway station opened in 1841, and there is a small, general aviation airfield nearby for private aircraft.

Mons has a typical Belgian oceanic climate, with relatively narrow temperature differences between seasons for its inland 50° latitude. Visitors can enjoy a range of sports and activities in the town, from professional basketball and tennis to horse racing at Hippodrome de Wallonie.

The centre of Mons consists largely of red brick houses, with the main square being a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The city also has several social buildings, which are evenly dispersed in the downtown and surrounding suburbs. Mons is a small town in Belgium, with a strong presence of terraced houses rather than separate houses.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a charming Belgian town, Mons has something for everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself and see why it’s such a special place.