The city of Mons presents itself to the visitor in a charming mixture of tradition and modernity. Its architectural treasures and small alleys in the old town give it a special charm. The ornate Belfry, which watches over the city, can be visited. Also worth seeing are the impressive collegiate church of Sainte-Waudru, the Jardin du Mayeur and the Château d'Havre.
The Waltrudis Church (Collégiale Sainte-Waudru) was built in 1460 - 1589 in the Gothic style. The building contains works by the sculptor Jacques Du Brœucq and the "Golden Chariot" (Car d'Or, 1781), which carries the relics of Saint Waltraud of Mons in the annual procession "Procession de la Trinité" and is pulled through Mons by a team of horses as part of the Ducasse de Mons.
The Belfry (Le Beffroi) was built in 1661 - 1672 in the Baroque style and is the city's landmark. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, along with 55 other belfries in Belgium and France.
Inside the belfry, a very narrow stone spiral staircase, in the tradition of the 15th and 16th centuries, leads to the third level. There are then wodden ladders up to the lantern. The belfry contains a clock and a carillon of 49 bells.
Views of Mons
The late Gothic town hall was built between 1440 and 1443.
Overview page River Cruise
