“With more than 80 activities on the programme, we are starting this year for the first time with a nocturne on Saturday 7 September. In addition, we are presenting no fewer than three firsts, hidden under the Vismarkt, behind the Sint-Jozefkerk and between two pilgrim routes,” says Carl Devlies, Alderman for Immovable Heritage (CD&V).
Over the past few months, the Leuven organisation team, in collaboration with the heritage organisation Herita and many enthusiastic partners, has developed a varied programme that not only reflects Leuven’s historical significance, but also strengthens its role as a modern cultural crossroads.
‘En route! All roads lead to Leuven’
Due to its strong link with the theme, the St. James’ Church is an important base during Open Monument Day. This historic pilgrimage stop, which was closed for years due to stability problems, is accessible again and introduces visitors to the experimental neighbourhood project that investigates how the church can once again become a neighbourhood heart. You can also collect stamps as a real pilgrim at various Leuven monuments and receive an exclusive souvenir at the end point, the St. James’ Church. You can find the pilgrim passport on the back of the Open Monument Day brochure.
In addition to these activities, there are numerous guided walks and bike rides, specially designed for families or accessible via smartphone for a more relaxed exploration. For example, the Historical and Local History Circle of Oud-Heverlee, together with several local organizations, has put together a walk and bike ride through Heverleebos and the new national park ‘Brabantse Wouden’.
In addition, there are many other things to see. The Keizersberg abbey site has grown in recent years into a lively mini-village with co-working spaces, creative studios and living space for students and monks. Visitors can take part in guided tours, walks and workshops. The Marie Thumas site is all about sustainability, with a fascinating exhibition about the history of the legume. And a special ship is moored at the Vaartkom: the historic botter yacht Walvisch, where visitors can learn more about the history of the ship and the Vaartkom itself.
Three firsts
This year, host city Leuven is coming up with three firsts. During ‘En Route with Victor Broos’ you will have the unique opportunity to discover seven buildings, including three exclusively open private homes, by this famous Leuven architect. “In addition, on Saturday at 12 noon we will officially open the Victor Broostuin at the Sint-Jozefkerk, a new green oasis that everyone can enjoy from then on,” adds Alderman Devlies.
A second first is the surprising archaeological discoveries beneath the Fish Marketincluding part of the historic Schipbrug. These unique finds will be on display for the first time during Open Monument Day. You can view the middle pillar of the double arch bridge up close and ask questions to the city archaeologists.
As a third scoop, Leuven presents the new Via Leuvena pilgrimage route that connects the Via Brabantica and the Via Monastica, from Mechelen to Hélécine. “This route honors Leuven as a historical pilgrimage stop, with the recently stabilized St. James’ Church as a reference point. The fact that modern pilgrims and hikers explore our monuments is of course a great boost for our tourism, trade and hospitality industry,” says Devlies.
Nocturne
As early as Saturday 7 September, you can visit the historic town hall for lectures, guided tours and exhibitions. This Open Monument Weekend is also the last chance to visit the town hall before it closes for a five-year renovation. As a special highlight, the city is organising a nocturne in both the town hall and St. James’ Church that evening. In the town hall, you can enjoy an enchanting concert by Brìghde Chaimbeul, a master of Scottish smallpipes. At the same time, a philosophical evening will take place in St. James’ Church, combined with a concert, especially for pilgrims and local residents, but where everyone is very welcome.
The full program of the city of Leuven can be found at leuven.be/openmonumentendag
EAERE 2024
Table of Contents
Open Monumentendag Leuven 2024: A Cultural Extravaganza
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural heritage of Leuven, Belgium, as the city celebrates its 2024 Open Monumentendag (Open Monument Day) on September 7-8. This year, the event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with over 80 activities lined up, including a nocturne on Saturday, September 7, and three exciting firsts.
A Varied Programme
Over the past few months, the Leuven organisation team, in collaboration with the heritage organisation Herita and many enthusiastic partners, has developed a diverse programme that showcases Leuven’s rich historical significance and its role as a modern cultural crossroads. From guided walks and bike rides to exhibitions, workshops, and lectures, there’s something for everyone.
St. James’ Church: A Historic Pilgrimage Stop
The St. James’ Church, an important base during Open Monument Day, is once again accessible after years of closure due to stability problems. Visitors can explore the church and participate in the experimental neighbourhood project that aims to revive the church as a community hub. As a real pilgrim, you can collect stamps at various Leuven monuments and receive an exclusive souvenir at the St. James’ Church. Don’t forget to grab your pilgrim passport on the back of the Open Monument Day brochure [[3]].
Guided Walks, Bike Rides, and More
In addition to the activities at St. James’ Church, visitors can enjoy numerous guided walks and bike rides, specially designed for families or accessible via smartphone for a more relaxed exploration. For instance, the Historical and Local History Circle of Oud-Heverlee, together with several local organizations, has put together a walk and bike ride through Heverleebos and the new national park ‘Brabantse Wouden’.
Three Firsts
This year, Leuven presents three exciting firsts:
- ‘En Route with Victor Broos’: Discover seven buildings, including three exclusively open private homes, by the famous Leuven architect Victor Broos.
- Archaeological Discoveries beneath the Fish Market: Explore the surprising archaeological finds, including part of the historic Schipbrug, on display for the first time during Open Monument Day.
- Via Leuven: Leuven introduces a new pilgrimage route that connects the Via Brabantica and the Via Monastica, from Mechelen to Hélécine, honouring Leuven as a historical pilgrimage stop.
Nocturne and More
As early as Saturday, September 7, visitors can enjoy the historic town hall for lectures, guided tours, and exhibitions. This Open Monument Weekend is also the last chance to visit the town hall before it closes for a five-year renovation. Additionally, the Keizersberg abbey site offers co-working spaces, creative studios, and living space for students and monks, while the Marie Thumas site presents an exhibition on the history of legumes. Don’t miss the historic botter yacht Walvisch at the Vaartkom, where you can learn about its history and the Vaartkom itself.
Practical Information
All activities are free, but some require registration in advance [[2]]. You can register online for the activities you want to participate in. Make sure to plan your day and evening ahead, as some activities may have limited capacity.
Conclusion
Open Monumentendag Leuven 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience, with its rich cultural heritage, exciting firsts, and diverse programme of activities. Mark your calendars for September 7-8 and get ready to discover the best of Leuven!
Open Monument Day: A Celebration of Cultural Heritage in Leuven and Beyond
Every year, on the second weekend of September, thousands of cultural monuments across Europe open their doors to the public, offering a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the continent. In Leuven, Belgium, this occasion is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and 2022 is no exception. This year’s Open Monument Day promises to be an unforgettable experience, with over 80 activities planned, including a nocturne on Saturday, September 7, and three exciting firsts.
‘En Route! All Roads Lead to Leuven’
The theme of this year’s Open Monument Day is ‘En Route! All Roads Lead to Leuven’, highlighting the city’s significance as a historical pilgrimage stop. The St. James’ Church, a historic pilgrimage stop that was closed for years due to stability problems, is once again accessible and will serve as an important base during the event [[3]]. Visitors can collect stamps as they explore the city’s monuments, earning an exclusive souvenir at the end point, the St. James’ Church.
Guided Walks, Bike Rides, and Pilgrimage Routes
In addition to the activities at the St. James’ Church, there are numerous guided walks and bike rides planned, designed to cater to families and individuals looking for a more relaxed exploration of the city. The Historical and Local History Circle of Oud-Heverlee, in collaboration with local organizations, has organized a walk and bike ride through Heverleebos and the new national park ‘Brabantse Wouden’.
Three Firsts
This year, Leuven is introducing three exciting firsts. The first is ‘En Route with Victor Broos’, which offers a unique opportunity to discover seven buildings, including three private homes, designed by the famous Leuven architect Victor Broos. The second first is the surprising archaeological discoveries beneath the Fish Market, including part of the historic Schipbrug, which will be on display for the first time during Open Monument Day. The third first is the introduction of the new Via Leuven, a pilgrimage route that connects the Via Brabantica and the Via Monastica, from Mechelen to Hélécine.
Nocturne and Other Activities
As part of the Open Monument Day celebrations, the historic town hall will open its doors early, on Saturday, September 7, for lectures, guided tours, and exhibitions. Visitors can also explore the Keizersberg abbey site, which has evolved into a lively mini-village with co-working spaces, creative studios, and living space for students and monks. The Marie Thumas site is another must-visit, with a fascinating exhibition on the history of legumes. Additionally, a special ship, the historic botter yacht Walvisch, will be moored at the Vaartkom, offering insights into its history and the Vaartkom itself.
Open Monument Day: A European-Wide Celebration
Open Monument Day is not unique to Leuven; it is a Europe-wide celebration, with thousands of cultural monuments participating across the continent. In East Belgium, for example, the open monument days are held on the same weekend, with numerous cultural monuments opening their facilities to the public [[2]]. Similarly, Park Abbey, one of the best-preserved abbey sites in Western Europe, will be the central theme of Leuven’s Open Monument Day 2022, in combination with the Alamire Foundation [[1]].
Open Monument Day 2022 in Leuven promises to be an unforgettable experience, with its rich program of activities, guided walks, bike rides, and exciting firsts. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a pilgrim, or simply a curious traveler, this event is a must-visit, offering a unique glimpse into the cultural heritage of Leuven and beyond.
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