City walls of Menen

The City walls of Menen, known locally as the Vestingwerken van Menen, are a remarkable testament to the historical and strategic significance of this Belgian town. Nestled along the banks of the Lys River, these fortifications have withstood the test of time, serving as silent witnesses to centuries of conflict and change. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, the City walls of Menen offer a captivating glimpse into the past, blending historical intrigue with architectural marvel.

The Beginnings: 16th Century Fortifications

The origins of the City walls of Menen date back to the late 16th century, amidst the turmoil of the Eighty Years' War. In 1578, the States General of the Netherlands recognized the strategic importance of Menen and initiated the construction of the first bastioned enclosure. These early fortifications were primarily composed of earthworks, reinforced with palisades and moats filled by the Lys River and the Geluwebeek stream. Four gates provided access to the town: the Bruges Gate to the north, the Courtrai Gate to the east, the Lille Gate to the south, and the Ypres Gate to the west. However, the construction was incomplete, leaving the town vulnerable to attacks.

In October 1578, Emmanuel de Lalaing, Baron of Montigny, seized Menen and continued fortifying it, turning it into a stronghold. The town changed hands several times before the States General finally regained control in October 1579. The fortification efforts continued sporadically until the turn of the century, with significant enhancements made in the 1640s, including the addition of defenses on the right bank of the Lys.

Vauban's Masterpiece: 1679-1689

Context

Following the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1668, Menen became a French possession. The subsequent Franco-Dutch War disrupted this arrangement temporarily, but the Treaty of Nijmegen in 1679 reaffirmed French control. Louis XIV then commissioned the renowned military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban to redesign the fortifications. Vauban's work from 1679 to 1689 transformed Menen into a formidable fortress, reflecting his innovative approach to military architecture.

The Northern Front

The northern front of the fortifications is a prime example of Vauban's first system, characterized by its regular layout. It features three bastions with orillons, topped with cavaliers: the Wervicq Bastion, the Ypres Bastion, and the Bruges Bastion. Additionally, a demi-bastion known as the Capucins Bastion flanks the Lys River on the west. The bastions are interconnected by curtains and protected by a tenaille and a demi-lune with a redoubt. The northern front also includes three gates: the Ypres Gate, the Bruges Gate, and the Courtrai Gate, the latter being double-layered for added security.

The Southern Front

The southern front presents a more irregular design, adapted to the natural landscape of the Lys River and surrounding wetlands. It includes the Blancheries Bastion and the Morte Lys Bastion, which enclose a marshy area. The Lille Hornwork, replacing the old Lille Gate, connects to the Camu Bastion on the northern front. The southern front is further protected by a glacis and an additional hornwork known as the Halluin Hornwork.

The 18th and 19th Centuries: Demolition and Reconstruction

In 1744, following the Siege of Menen, Louis XV ordered the demolition of the fortifications. The ramparts and casemates were dismantled, and the moats were filled, although the foundations remained intact. In 1814, Menen became part of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, which decided to rebuild the fortifications. The reconstruction began in 1817, including new bastions with straight flanks and casemates designed to withstand advances in artillery technology. However, the works remained incomplete by the time Belgium gained independence in 1830.

Remnants and Legacy

Today, remnants of the City walls of Menen still stand, offering a tangible connection to the town's storied past. Visitors can explore parts of the Bruges and Courtrai bastions, as well as the entrance gate of the Geluwebeek within Ter Walle Park. The casemate that once flanked the Lys River entrance also remains, now located on Oude Leielaan. These vestiges serve as a poignant reminder of Menen's historical significance and the enduring legacy of its fortifications.

Whether you're strolling along the ancient ramparts, delving into the town's military history, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty of the Lys River, the City walls of Menen offer a rich and immersive experience. This remarkable site stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of those who built and defended it, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the historical heart of Belgium.