Citadel of Namur
The Citadel of Namur is one of the largest citadels in Europe and rises majestically above the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers. This imposing fortification has a history stretching back to Roman times and was expanded over the centuries by successive rulers, including the Spanish, Austrians and Dutch. Today the citadel offers a fascinating complex of underground passages, bastions and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city of Namur and the Meuse valley.
Accessibility at the citadel has been well considered. A cable car with lift connects the centre of Namur to the top of the citadel, sparing wheelchair users the steep climb. On the grounds, a tourist train is fitted with a wheelchair ramp. For those who wish to explore the terrain at their own pace, a Joelette is available for loan. The main paths on the upper plateau are paved and adapted toilets and PMR parking spaces are provided.
The citadel is open to visitors year-round and offers temporary exhibitions and events in addition to its permanent attractions. The Terra Nova visitor centre provides an excellent overview of the site's military history. From Namur city centre, the citadel is easily reached by cable car or by car via the Route Merveilleuse. A visit to the citadel combines well with a walk through Namur's historic centre.
Good to know
- Reservation
- No reservation is needed for an individual visit to the grounds. For the Joelette and guided tours of Terra Nova, booking via the website is recommended.
- Busy and quiet times
- Busiest on summer weekends and during Belgian school holidays, especially around midday. Quieter on weekdays in the shoulder seasons and in the first hours after opening.
- Things to note
- Although the main paths are paved, the older bastion sections and some side paths are uneven. After rain the sloping plateau can be slippery and the distances between attractions are considerable.
- Visit tip
- Take the cable lift from Place du Theatre to the top and combine with the Terra Nova visitor centre; in summer the tourist train with wheelchair ramp runs a scenic loop past all the highlights.
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