Mons, Belgium

Visitors who would like to get an intimate glimpse into the lives of the rich aristocrats of 18th century France should add the Decorative Arts Museum Francois Duesberg to their list of must-see attractions in Mons. Located in a superb old building on Roosevelt Square, the Museum Francois Duesberg is home to an outstanding collection of decorative arts which has been painstakingly curated by Francois and Betty Duesberg. At the heart of the collection you can admire opulent clocks, priceless porcelain and superb gold and silverware. Avid historians and collectors can request a private guided tour of the museum by contacting Baron F. Duesberg himself. The museum is open to the public from Thursday to Sunday from 2pm to 7pm.

Decorative Arts Museum Francois Duesberg, Square F. Roosevelt 12, 7000 Mons, Belgium, Phone: +32-65-36-31-64

Vincent van Gogh is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and loved artists in the world. While you are visiting Mons you can find out more about the life and times of this incredible artist by visiting Maison van Gogh in the village of Cuesmes. Touring the house, which is now run as a museum, will give visitors a rare insight into the emergence of Van Gogh, the artist. It is within these walls that the master took his first self-taught foray into the world of art. To fully appreciate all you will see you can book a guided tour of the museum.

Maison van Gogh, Rue du Pavillon 3, 7033 Mons, Belgium, Phone: +32-65-35-56-11

Mon’s famous Doudou Festival takes place on Trinity weekend each year, attracting thousands of locals and a curious following of visitors. The Doudou Festival celebrates ancient myths and legends from as early as the 14th century. The highlight of the festival includes a meticulously choreographed re-enactment of the famous battle of St. George and the Dragon, which takes place in the center of the Grand Place. If you cannot arrange your visit to coincide with the festival you can still learn all about it by visiting the unique interactive Doudou Museum instead. Here a series of interactive terminals, screens and videos tell the story of the unifying spirit of the festival and its importance to the people of Mons.

Doudou Museum, Garden of Mayeur, Grand Place, 7000 Mons, Belgium, Phone: +32-65-40-53-18

Considered to be one of the finest engineering feats in modern-day Belgium, the Strepy-Thieu Boat Lift must to be seen to be believed. This remarkable boat lift enables inland boaters to navigate a remarkable 73 meter vertical drop to continue their passage along Belgium’s waterways. Your visit to the Strepy-Thieu Interpretation Center will include an introduction to the history of inland navigation in Belgium and an explanatory film on the construction and use of this elevator funicular. In addition, visitors get the chance to admire the massive engine room from the top of the structure and watch the lift in action while you sip coffee in the café.

Strepy-Thieu Boat Lift, Rue Raymond Cordier, Thieu, Belgium, Phone: +32-78-05-90-59

Mons Belfry is a prominent landmark in the city and is a must-see attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts. This impressive example of a baroque belfry was constructed between 1661 and 1672 to replace an earlier clock tower which stood on this spot. When completed, the belfry played an important part in everyday life in Mons, chiming to announce the sunrise, the start and end of the workday, curfews or fires. At the top of the 87m tower there is a carillon of 49 bells. From Tuesday to Sunday, visitors are invited to visit the small museum located inside the tower and to climb the 365-step circular staircase to enjoy wonderful views of the city.

Mons Belfry, Rue des Gades, 7000 Mons, Belgium, Phone: +32-473-30-72-53

Most cities have at least one curiosity which attracts the attention of visitors, and Mons is no exception. You will find The Guardhouse Monkey outside the entrance to the City Hall. How he got there, no-one knows, although his origin is the theme of many theories. The little iron monkey could have been part of a tavern sign, or even a place where criminals or wayward children were brought to be publically chastised. Regardless of where he came from, the Guardhouse Monkey has stood his ground for centuries and it is rumored that if you stroke his head with your left hand you will be blessed with good fortune. The worn and smooth surface of the monkey’s head is proof that many people believe the legend.

The Guardhouse Monkey, Grand-Place 22, Mons 7000, Belgium

Located just 6km from Mons, The Neolithic Flint Mines of Spiennes are a unique attraction which extends over 100 acres. These remarkable flint mines were originally dug out during the Neolithic period between 4200 and 2500BC and represent the largest flint mines in Europe. To limit any possible damage to the site only a limited number of visitors are allowed to descend into the original mines, which lie 9 meters below ground. Luckily, everyone is welcome to visit SILEX’s, the interpretive center and museum where visitors of all ages can learn all about the mine. The displays include interactive activities for children and on select weekends you are invited to explore an excavation site with the archaeologists.

Neolithic Flint Mines of Spiennes, Rue Point du Jour 300, 7032 Spiennes, Phone: +32-65-40-53-25

Few can resist putting a restaurant with a name like this to the test. Whether you are a gourmand or just love interesting food, a visit to Art des Mets (The Art of Food) is a must while in Mons. At the heart of the restaurant you will find a dedicated team who strive to give their guests excellent food and service in a refined setting. The innovative menu is based on fresh seasonal produce, lovingly prepared and served with flair. Tempting guests to explore a variety of flavors, the restaurant offers two fixed-price 3 or 4-course menus, with or without wine pairing for dinner. At lunchtime you can enjoy a reasonably-priced 2-course menu with coffee.

Art des Mets, Rue des Clercs 9, 7000 Mons, Belgium, Phone: +32-65-63-07-09