Citadel of Namur

Perched majestically above the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, the Citadel of Namur, locally known as Citadel van Namen, stands as a testament to over a millennium of history. This formidable fortress, one of the largest in Europe, has witnessed countless battles, sieges, and transformations, earning it the moniker The Termite Mound of Europe from none other than Napoleon Bonaparte. Today, it is not only a symbol of Namur's rich past but also a vibrant cultural and recreational hub.

The Historical Tapestry of the Citadel of Namur

The origins of the Citadel of Namur trace back to around 6000 BC when the first human settlements appeared at this strategic location. By the 1st century, a well-structured village with a port had developed on the left bank of the Sambre. The rocky spur that would become the citadel saw its first fortifications by the 9th century, marking the beginning of its military significance.

From the 10th to the 15th centuries, the citadel evolved under the rule of 23 successive counts. Namur grew into the capital of the county, its influence extending far beyond its borders. The counts built a castle, the Saint-Pierre collegiate church, and residences for canons, fortifying the city further. By the 15th century, Namur boasted a population of 8,000 and a robust defensive structure. However, the last count, Jean III, sold the county to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in 1429, setting off a series of territorial changes.

A Fortress in Flux: 15th to 19th Centuries

The Citadel of Namur's strategic importance made it a coveted prize, changing hands numerous times between the Holy Roman Empire, the Habsburgs of Spain and Austria, France, and the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. The fortress was continuously reinforced to keep up with advancements in artillery and military tactics. Notably, in the 16th century, Italian engineer Donato de Boni and later Sébastien van Noyen and Giovanni Maria Olgiati constructed a bastioned enclosure known as Médiane.

The 17th century saw significant expansion under the threat of the Thirty Years' War and Louis XIV's ambitions. Engineers Salomon Van Es and Jean Boulengier designed the Terra Nova section, adding two bastioned lines. The fortifications continued to grow, with Menno van Coehoorn constructing Fort Guillaume, later known as Fort d'Orange, to address vulnerabilities in the terrain.

The citadel endured numerous sieges, including the famous ones in 1692 by Louis XIV and Vauban, and in 1695 by William of Orange and Coehoorn. After the War of the Spanish Succession, Namur became part of the Austrian Netherlands, with the citadel serving as a fortress for the Dutch Barrier. The 18th century brought further transformations, but by the end of the century, the fortress's military relevance waned. Joseph II ordered the dismantling of Fort d'Orange in 1782, and under French rule, Napoleon demilitarized the site.

The Citadel in Modern Times

Following the Congress of Vienna in 1815, the citadel was reconstructed as part of a defensive line against France. However, the rise of rifled artillery in the 19th century rendered the bastioned fortifications obsolete. The citadel's military role diminished, and it transitioned into a site for barracks and training. In 1975, the Belgian Ministry of Defense handed the keys to the city, and by 1977, the last military units had vacated the premises.

Today, the Citadel of Namur is a bustling tourist attraction offering a range of activities. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, guided tours of the extensive underground tunnels, and immersive 3D animations that bring the site's history to life. The Terra Nova Visitor Center provides insights into the citadel's past and Namur's cultural heritage. A scenic train tour offers breathtaking views of the city and the Meuse valley.

The citadel also hosts numerous cultural, historical, and tourist events throughout the year. The Terra Nova barracks are available for private and corporate events, adding a touch of historical grandeur to any occasion. A cable car, inaugurated on May 8, 2021, now connects the city center to the citadel, making access even more convenient.

Exploring the Citadel of Namur

As you wander through the citadel's three main sections—Donjon, Médiane, and Terra Nova—you'll encounter a blend of ancient ruins and more recent fortifications. The Donjon, the lowest part, offers a glimpse into the early medieval defenses. Médiane, the intermediate section, showcases the innovations in military architecture from the 16th century. Terra Nova, the highest part, provides panoramic views and houses the visitor center.

A visit to the Citadel of Namur is not complete without exploring its vast network of underground tunnels, which span over 7 kilometers. These subterranean passages, some dating back to the 17th century, were used for storage, troop movements, and as shelters during sieges. The guided tour through The Termite Mound of Europe is a highlight, offering a unique perspective on the citadel's defensive strategies.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Citadel of Namur promises an unforgettable journey through time. Its walls echo with the stories of battles fought, empires risen and fallen, and the enduring spirit of Namur. So, come and explore this magnificent fortress, and let the Citadel of Namur captivate your imagination.