Oudenaarde

Oudenaarde, a city in the Flemish province of East Flanders, Belgium, offers a journey through time where medieval grandeur intertwines with a passionate cycling culture. Situated along the Scheldt River, the city's name, meaning "old field" or "old court," alludes to its deep historical roots, stretching back to Roman times. Once a prosperous center for cloth manufacturing and celebrated for its elaborate tapestries, Oudenaarde today invites visitors to explore its well-preserved historic core, characterized by picturesque Flemish architecture and tranquil riverside scenery.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Oudenaarde is internationally recognized as the finish town for the prestigious Tour of Flanders cycling race, drawing enthusiasts from across the globe. The city offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and active pursuits, from delving into the intricate art of tapestry weaving at the local museum to tackling the iconic cobbled climbs of the Flemish Ardennes. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art aficionado, or a cycling devotee, Oudenaarde provides an authentic and less-trodden Belgian experience.

From Roman Outpost to Tapestry Capital

The origins of Oudenaarde can be traced back to a Roman outpost, later evolving into a Visigoth fortification. The first mention of a castle appeared in the 10th century, and by the 11th century, city walls were erected, marking its transformation into a prosperous commercial hub along the Scheldt River. The nearby settlement of Ename, where Holy Roman Emperor Otto II constructed a fort around 974, played a significant role in the region's early development before its destruction in 1034, leading many of its inhabitants to relocate to Oudenaarde.

Oudenaarde flourished during the Middle Ages, primarily due to its thriving cloth and tapestry industry. From the 15th to the 18th century, the city gained international renown for its elaborate tapestries, particularly the 'verdures' depicting green landscapes and nature motifs. So significant was this industry that Emperor Charles V, a known admirer of tapestries, mandated a unique weavers' mark – the city's coat of arms with spectacles – to guarantee their authenticity and quality. However, the industry faced a decline in the 15th century as many skilled weavers, some trained in Oudenaarde, moved to other centers like Paris, contributing to the success of Gobelin tapestries.

Battles, Occupations, and Resilience

Oudenaarde's strategic location also made it a recurring site of conflict. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was frequently besieged in conflicts with rival Ghent. In 1708, it was the setting for a major engagement in the War of the Spanish Succession, where the Allied forces, led by the Duke of Marlborough, decisively defeated the French army. The city endured multiple French occupations, during which fortifications were improved, only to be destroyed again during sieges. The 20th century also brought hardship, with significant damage during World War I and occupation by Nazi German forces in World War II, before its liberation by British troops and local Resistance in September 1944.

A Cycling Mecca

In more recent history, Oudenaarde has cemented its place on the world stage as a center for cycling. Since 2012, it has served as the finish location for the iconic Tour of Flanders, one of cycling's most prestigious one-day classic races. The surrounding Flemish Ardennes, with their challenging cobbled climbs like the Oude Kwaremont, Paterberg, and Koppenberg, attract cyclists and fans from around the globe, making Oudenaarde a lively hub for the sport.

Begin your exploration at the Oudenaarde Town Hall, a magnificent 16th-century Gothic building with an impressive five-story belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside, the MOU Museum (Museum of Oudenaarde and the Flemish Ardennes) delves into the city's artistic and cultural heritage, particularly its world-famous tapestries. The museum showcases a unique collection of these woven artworks, including the distinctive 'verdures,' and highlights the city's history and silverware collection.

Nearby, the Church of Saint Walburga, a striking Gothic church, displays beautiful stained-glass windows and religious artwork. Another significant religious site is the 13th-century Church of Our Lady of Pamele. For cycling enthusiasts, the Centre of the Tour of Flanders offers an immersive experience into the iconic race, with exhibits and memorabilia. You can even test your own mettle on stationary bikes to feel the thrill of the race. Walk along the River Scheldt for scenic views, or explore the lively Oudenaarde Market on a Saturday morning.

The most comfortable time to visit Oudenaarde for pleasant weather and outdoor activities is during spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October). Temperatures during these months are mild, ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), with fewer crowds than in peak summer. Summer (July-August) offers the warmest weather, ideal for outdoor festivals, but expect more tourists and potentially higher prices. While Oudenaarde can be visited year-round, winter (November-February) provides a quieter, more affordable experience, though it will be colder and damper.

Oudenaarde is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. The main square, Grote Markt, is a central point for many attractions and local eateries. The city is well-connected by the Belgian train system, with a train station conveniently located in town, about a 10-minute walk from the Town Hall. Direct train lines connect Oudenaarde to Ghent (30 minutes), Brussels (1 hour), and Kortrijk. If you plan to visit smaller, more remote towns in the Flemish Ardennes, consider renting a car. The local bus service, De Lijn, also serves the city center.

The official language in Oudenaarde is Dutch. Shops typically operate from 10 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday, and are generally closed on Sundays. The currency used is the Euro (EUR). For dining, lunch is often the main meal, served between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, with many restaurants closing in the afternoon.