Things to do in Wallonia, Wallonia: The Best Castles

The castle of Bouillon, the oldest vestige of feudalism in Belgium Visit one of the largest fortified castles in Belgium and embark on a journey through more than 1000 years of history. Standing on three rocky peaks, the castle of Bouillon dominates the city and offers a magnificent view of it. During your visit, you will also be able to discover an art very widespread in medieval times: falconry. Admire the majestic flight of hawks, eagles and owls in a show with humor (from 01/03 to 11/11 inclusive). Finally, end the visit with the Scriptura museum which will tell you the history of the school and the exhibition of the fresco "The Armed Pilgrimage of Godfrey of Bouillon".

Situated on a rock 60 meters above the valley of the Hoyoux river, the castle offers a magnificent view over the surrounding nature reserve of 450 hectares. The castle was the house of several famous owners, among them the Count de Marchin to whom it owes its present appearance, Maximilian-Henry of Bavaria, Prince Bishop of Liège, the Cardinal von Fürstenberg or the families de Montmorency, Lamarche and Braconier. Since 1941 it belongs to VIVAQUA. An audioguide available in 8 languages enabling visitors to discover this unique place, belonging to the Major Heritage of Wallonia. Remarkable 17th century stuccowork decorates the ceilings while the walls are covered with carved panelling, tapestries and large paintings. The furniture, with some exceptional 18th and 19th century pieces, fits perfectly into this historic setting. One of the rooms is dedicated to an hydraulic wheel built in Modave in the 17th century which was the model for the machine at Marly in Versailles.

Come and discover the history of the Chateau de Chimay presented by Stephane Bern. The Film “Secrets de Chimay” (38′) telling the Princes of Chimay's history, broadcast in the Maison des Artistes at : 11h15 – 12h15 – 13h15 – 14h15 15h15 – 16h15 et 17h15