10 Things to Do at Namur Castle (Château de Namur) in Namur, Belgium
Namur Castle (Château de Namur) is a fortified castle located in the Belgian city of Namur, in the Walloon region of the country. It is one of the most important historical sites in Belgium and has been a major defensive stronghold since the 9th century. The castle is now a popular tourist attraction, and there are plenty of things to do and explore at Namur Castle. Here are 10 of the top activities to enjoy when visiting the castle.
1. Explore the History of the Castle
The castle has a long and fascinating history and was first built in the 9th century to defend the city of Namur from attack. It has been used by many different rulers over the centuries, including the Counts of Namur, the Dukes of Burgundy, the Habsburgs, and the French. Visitors can explore the castle’s history by visiting the museum, which contains a variety of artifacts and information about the castle’s past.
2. Tour the Castle
The castle is open to the public and visitors can take a guided tour of the castle to learn more about its history and architecture. The tour will take visitors through the castle’s various rooms and chambers, including the chapel, the keep, and the dungeons.
3. Climb the Tower
The castle’s tower is a popular attraction and visitors can climb the stairs to the top for a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
4. Visit the Castle Gardens
The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which are a great place to relax and take in the views. There are also a variety of plants and flowers to admire, as well as statues and fountains.
5. Enjoy the Views from the Ramparts
The castle’s ramparts offer stunning views of the city and the nearby Meuse River. Visitors can take a walk along the ramparts and take in the views.
6. Learn About the Castle’s Defenses
The castle was originally built for defensive purposes and visitors can learn about the various defensive features, such as the drawbridge, the moat, and the portcullis.
7. Attend a Festival
The castle hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Medieval Festival, which takes place in August, and the International Festival of Namur, which takes place in October.
8. Visit the Castle’s Museum
The castle’s museum contains a variety of artifacts and information about the castle’s history, as well as a range of interactive exhibits.
9. Take a Boat Trip
The castle is located on the banks of the Meuse River, and visitors can take a boat trip along the river to enjoy the views of the castle from the water.
10. Enjoy a Picnic
The castle’s grounds are a great place to enjoy a picnic and take in the views. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat.
Visiting Namur Castle is a great way to learn about the history of the city and the castle itself. Whether you are looking for a day out with the family or a romantic getaway, there is something for everyone at Namur Castle.