Tournai

The Belfry of Tournai is the oldest in Belgium and another UNESCO-listed monument. Standing at 72 meters tall, this medieval tower dates back to the 12th century. Originally built as a symbol of the city’s independence, it served various purposes, including a watchtower and a prison. Visitors can climb 257 steps to the top for a panoramic view of Tournai and its surroundings. Along the way, the interior exhibits medieval artifacts and explains the belfry’s historical significance. Its bells, which still chime today, play a vital role in local traditions, making it a beloved symbol of the city. The carillon’s oldest bell, cast in 1392, still rings during annual celebrations like the Tournai Procession. A hidden chamber in the tower houses a replica of the city’s medieval charter, symbolizing its historic freedoms.

Designed by renowned Belgian Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta, the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts) in Tournai is a cultural gem. The museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning various periods. Visitors can find works from Flemish masters such as Rubens and Brueghel, as well as modern pieces by Manet, Monet, and Van Gogh. The museum’s architectural design itself is noteworthy, with a unique horseshoe layout that offers a serene viewing experience. Art lovers appreciate the diverse range of exhibits, from Renaissance to contemporary works, making it one of Tournai's must-visit cultural spots. The museum’s “Secret Sketches” exhibit displays preparatory drawings by Rubens, rarely seen by the public. In 2023, a rooftop garden opened, offering visitors a quiet space with views of Tournai’s skyline.

The Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most remarkable examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. Its five bell towers dominate the city skyline, a unique feature setting it apart from other cathedrals. Construction began in the 12th century, blending Romanesque and early Gothic styles. The interior houses impressive stained-glass windows, sculptures, and a treasury with precious relics, including the Shrine of Our Lady. The cathedral suffered damage during World War II but has undergone significant restoration. Visitors are drawn not only to its grandeur but also its spiritual significance, with centuries of religious history embedded in its walls. Recent excavations beneath the nave revealed a 12th-century crypt containing frescoes of biblical scenes, now partially accessible to the public. Every summer, the cathedral hosts a medieval music festival, where Gregorian chants echo through its vaulted ceilings.

The Pont des Trous, a medieval bridge spanning the River Scheldt, is a rare remnant of Tournai's medieval fortifications. Originally built in the 13th century, this bridge was part of the city’s defensive system and helped control access via the river. It features three arches and two imposing towers, creating an iconic image. Despite suffering damage in both World Wars, the bridge has been carefully restored and remains a symbol of Tournai’s medieval past. Visitors enjoy walking along the riverbanks to admire the bridge and take in its historical significance, as well as its role in connecting the city with the surrounding region. During restoration in 2019, archaeologists discovered 14th-century cannonballs embedded in the northern tower. The bridge now serves as a backdrop for Tournai’s annual historical reenactment festival, where actors recreate medieval market scenes.

The Tournai Natural History Museum, established in 1828, offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The museum is one of the oldest of its kind in Belgium and is known for its vast collection of taxidermied animals, fossils, and geological artifacts. Highlights include a beautifully preserved whale skeleton and a large insect collection. The museum also features an aquarium showcasing freshwater and marine species. Interactive exhibits make it a popular destination for families, while its focus on regional flora and fauna appeals to nature enthusiasts. The blend of science, history, and education makes this museum a beloved institution in Tournai. A new “Climate Change” exhibit uses augmented reality to show the impact of warming on local ecosystems. The museum’s 19th-century herbarium, containing over 10,000 plant specimens, is now digitized for researchers worldwide.