The charm of the ancient stones of Barbençon, a historic village located in the province of Hainaut, Belgium, is undeniable.
DISTANCE FROM BRUSSELS
1 h 29 min (96.5 km) via E19
ESTIMATED TIME
2 hr 30 min
This place, which was the birthplace of the lords of Barbençon, is famous for its activity in the glass and marble industry. One of the most emblematic streets, Rue des Marbriers, bears witness to this past. Together with the church district and the presbytery, it forms the historic heart of Barbençon.
Province: Henao
Municipality: Beaumont
The characterful houses, built with limestone blocks, are authentic heritage gems. Each tells a story, a part of Barbençon’s rich history, and together they form a cityscape that looks like something out of a fairy tale.
The church of Saint-Lambert, in Gothic and Renaissance style, was restored in the 1970s. Its interior is a testimony to Barbençon’s rich past, with funerary monuments of the great master glassmakers and marble workers, a high altar and a baptismal font.
Outside, the many historic farmhouses take us back centuries: Jette Feuille with its 17th century towers, La Bouverie and La Perruque, outbuildings of the old castle.
And under the ancient walls of the castle, which stands proudly, stretches the lake, majestic. Bathed in calm and surrounded by a flourishing nature, it invites you to relax. The place is magical.
Whether on foot, horseback or bicycle, Barbençon offers the peace of mind of following marked trails and paths for your enjoyment. This charming town is a perfect destination for those seeking a quiet and enriching travel experience, full of history and natural beauty.
Barbençon, with its rich history and stunning scenery, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia. If you are planning a trip to Belgium, be sure to visit this charming corner of the Hainaut region.
The inevitable
| Old castle: Overlooking the lake, classical monument and remains of the old medieval fortress (ramparts and entrance gate). Farm of wigs (XVIIth century) : Fenced limestone farmhouse which belonged to the lords of Barbençon. Listed monument. Church of Saint-Lambert (XVIth c.) : limestone building with gothic tower from 1589 – Listed Monument Lac de Barbençon : A real haven of peace with a view of the castle on top of the old ramparts. Yew tree station: One of the last indigenous yew stations in Wallonia with about thirty trees – Nature reserve and remarkable trees. Old views of the village : Panels installed in the village presenting photos of the life of yesteryear. |
Download a Brochure (in French of this village)
The association Most Beautiful Villages of Wallonia oversees a network of 32 villages, bearers of a strong territorial identity and reflections of traditional architecture. It is committed to the promotion of the rural, cultural and natural heritage of Wallonia and is part of the development of local and responsible tourism.
With information from https://beauxvillages.be/
