Sur les traces du Doudou

The Doudou Museum showcases this exceptional heritage through various perspectives: historical, anthropological, scientific, artistic, secular, and religious. From the uniqueness of the Ducasse de Mons to the legend of Saint George, the museum focuses on understanding and highlighting the different aspects of this universal and centuries-old story. A journey through the museum allows visitors to understand and interpret this exceptional intangible heritage. The various exhibition spaces are structured around a central theme: Saint George and the Dragon, between imagination and reality.Want to experience and relive the legendary Ducasse de Mons whenever you wish? Don’t hesitate for a moment! Just step through the doors of the Doudou Museum!Adaptation for visually impaired visitorsVisually impaired individuals who wish to enjoy a culturally adapted experience can visit the museum. Thanks to close collaboration with Les Amis des Aveugles, specific adaptations and museum guides in braille are provided.At the Doudou Museum, embark on a journey to discover the key objects of the Doudou: the new golden lance, the teeth, the medallions, dragons, and the seal of Saint Waudru.Want to know more about the Doudou? Discover more information at www.visitmons.be/agenda/le-doudou

From a simple chapel to a parishBefore becoming a church, Saint-Elizabeth was a chapel located in an old mansion. This mansion was donated in 1345 by Isabeau of Antoing, the widow of Gérard de Werchin, to be dedicated to her patron saint. The current church was only built in 1516 and became an important parish in the life of Mons.The evolution and style of the buildingThe building you see today has undergone many changes, mainly due to a fire that broke out during the celebration of the Annunciation in 1714. The fire is said to have been caused by mishandling a rocket meant to symbolize the Holy Spirit! The renowned architect from Mons, C.-J. de Bettignies, oversaw the restoration work and designed the bell tower, completed in 1720. The interior is therefore a combination of Gothic elements from before the fire (the pillars, the ribs, and one façade of the Gothic church) and more recent Baroque elements (the upper part of the nave and the choir).Not to be missedDid you know that the reliquary and the lances of Saint George are displayed in Saint-Elizabeth Church? These treasures are used each year during the traditional Doudou festival! Don’t miss the organ from 1778, as well as the five neo-Gothic altars and retables, which uniquely have preserved their original polychromy.

An Exceptional Architectural HeritageThe Main Square (Grand-Place) is lined with stunning façades in various styles, ranging from Gothic to Neoclassical, with touches of Renaissance. Among the standout buildings is the impressive Town Hall, built in the 15th century in Gothic style. Its façade, adorned with sculptures, is topped by the famous Head Keeper’s Monkey (Singe du Grand Garde), a symbol of good luck for those who stroke its head with their left hand.Facing the Town Hall, other remarkable buildings, such as the House of the Golden Fleece and the former Cloth Hall, enhance the elegance of the square. Each stone tells a story, each architectural detail unveils a different era.A Vibrant Meeting PlaceThe Main Square (Grand-Place) of Mons is also the stage for numerous events that enliven the city. The most famous is undoubtedly the Ducasse of Mons, also known as the Doudou, which is listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This annual festival attracts thousands of visitors who come to witness the legendary battle between Saint George and the Dragon.Throughout the year, the square also hosts markets, concerts, Christmas festivities, and various activities. The terraces of the cafés and restaurants invite relaxation, offering a stunning view of the bustling atmosphere.A Cultural and Tourist HubAs the historic heart of Mons, the Main Square (Grand-Place) is the perfect starting point for exploring the city. It is within walking distance of numerous iconic sites, such as the Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Museum of the Doudou.The Mains Square (Grand-Place) of Mons is more than a passing spot: it is a space where history, culture, and conviviality meet. Come and discover this unique place, where every visit immerses you in the soul of Mons.

The construction of the Saint-Waltrude Collegiate church began in 1450 with the building of the choir and continued until 1621 with the nave. Its Latin cross-shaped architecture, which includes 29 chapels, makes this building an exceptional ensemble, classified as Heritage of Wallonia.This church was owned by the canonesses of Saint-Waltrude, who dreamed of crowning their collegiate church with an imposing 190-meter tower. Although the first stones of this tower were laid in 1549, the project was never completed, leaving behind a fascinating mystery.Not to be missed:The relics of Saint-Waltrude: one containing the body (the shrine), the other the head (the head relic).The works of Jacques du Brœucq (1505-1584), including statues and alabaster bas-reliefs visible in the choir and transept.The imperial stained glass windows: created in 1510/1511 by a Mons master glazier.The sculptures: notably the white stone statues of Saint Michael slaying the demon (15th century) and Sainte-Waudru (16th century).The Golden Coach: a painted and gilded wooden vehicle in Louis XVI style (1780/1781), used during the annual Trinity procession (Doudou).The Treasure of the Collegiate church.

The Belfry of Mons, recognized by UNESCO since 1999, is an iconic landmark in the Mons landscape. As the only baroque belfry in Belgium, it stands as a remarkable architectural testimony. Inside, it houses an interpretation center dedicated to its history and its recognition as UNESCO heritage.The permanent exhibition comes to life through multimedia displays called "windows of time," as well as through objects from the collections of Mons.Located on the heights of Mons, the visit also offers an unmissable panoramic view of the city.