Bouillon, one of the largest fortified castles in Belgium offers more than a 1000 years of rich history.
Built on three rocky peaks, the fortified castle overlooks the town and offers a wonderful background for the charming village. it is still the site of a sport that was very popular in medieval times, falconry. Admire the majestic flight of hawks, eagles and owls during the show season.
The castle is home to the fresco
“The armed pilgrimage of Godefroy de Bouillon”.
Godfrey of Bouillon ( latin: Godefridus Bullionensis; 1060 – 18 July 1100) was a pre-eminent leader of the First crusade, as well as the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem from 1099 to 1100.
although he avoided the title of king, preferring that of prince (princeps) and Advocatus Sancti Sepulchri, or Advocate of the Holy Sepulchre.
He was the second son of Eustace II, Count of Boulogne, and Lord of Bouillon. Godfrey joined the First Crusade in 1096, playing a key role during the capture of Jerusalem in 1099 and even becoming its King. He died in July 1100 and was succeeded by his brother Baldwin as King of Jerusalem
Activities in and around this historical site:
Castle tour
falconry show
Scriptura Museum
temporary exhibitions
Ducal Museum
the Archeoscope
as well as many seasonal festivities and hiking tours.
The town and its surroundings are a great place to visit. There are also very good restaurants, as well as trout fishing or hiking/biking tours..