8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide)

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Medieval Leuven Opens New Walking Trail Along Ancient City Walls in December 2024

Leuven, a town steeped in medieval history, is preparing to open a new walking path that follows its ancient city walls in December 2024. This new trail promises to provide a different perspective on the town, weaving through its past while allowing you to enjoy views of prominent features like the magnificent Gothic Town Hall and the more recent Sky Tower. This new trail expands Leuven’s already existing network of walking routes, making it even more appealing for both those who live there and those travelling through. It will likely give visitors another reason to pick Leuven as a destination instead of the more well-known tourist centers of Brussels or Bruges, adding to its charm as a place that successfully blends its historical roots with the lively character of a modern town.

Leuven's medieval walls, erected in the 14th century, were more than just defenses. They were also an early form of urban planning, limiting the city's expansion in a way that's still relevant in today's urban design debates. This December, a new walking trail is supposed to open along the remaining sections of these ancient walls.

The trail, one hopes, will provide context for the walls' historical role in European conflicts like the Hundred Years' War. The trail will cover roughly 3 kilometers, though not all the walls still stand. It seems some of the rebuilding will rely on a mixture of archaeological findings and newer materials to ensure it lasts.

It seems many European towns are following a similar path of reviving old infrastructure. We'll have to see how successful this is, in terms of how much more tourism it attracts and whether it truly does create a deeper appreciation for these old structures.

Leuven, often overlooked compared to bigger Belgian cities, has a lot going for it: founded in 1425, the university makes for an interesting combination with this medieval history. The walls were a masterpiece of medieval engineering, using local resources and clever techniques, such as sloped walls to better deflect attackers’ projectiles.

The new walking path will be dotted with historical markers detailing the city’s transition from a fortified place to a university hub, providing a glimpse into how it changed economically and socially over centuries. The 1629 siege severely damaged the city, but this trail is a reminder of how it was rebuilt.

The trail's location next to new eateries and breweries could be interesting. It will be good to see how it affects pedestrian traffic patterns and whether the benefits truly extend to both tourists and people living in the city. It could end up being a textbook case in reimagining a city in a way that positively impacts everyone. We will have to wait and see if the trail provides a deeper insight into the city's history or if the idea is just more marketing for the town.

What else is in this post?

1. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Medieval Leuven Opens New Walking Trail Along Ancient City Walls in December 2024
2. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Dinant Launches Direct Train Service From Brussels Airport Starting Fall 2024
3. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Ypres Introduces Night Tours of World War I Sites With New Light Installation
4. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Tournai Cathedral Reopens Gothic North Tower After 40 Years of Restoration
5. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Mechelen Converts 15th Century Monastery Into Boutique Hotel Opening March 2024
6. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Tongeren Unveils Roman Archaeological Finds at New Underground Exhibition Space
7. 8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Chimay Opens Microbrewery Experience in 18th Century Castle Cellars

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Dinant Launches Direct Train Service From Brussels Airport Starting Fall 2024

Dinant, a charming town nestled along the Meuse River, will become even more accessible starting this Fall with the launch of a direct train connection from Brussels Airport. The roughly 77 kilometer journey will be a relatively quick 2 hours and 10 minutes on average. This new link should make it easier to explore the area for those flying into Belgium. It's a positive development for the town, especially given the relatively affordable train fares which can be as low as €19.21 for advanced bookings. With trains running about every two hours and a total of 32 daily departures, getting to Dinant should be quite convenient and flexible. This new service is sure to boost the town's appeal, potentially drawing in more tourists to experience Dinant's history and natural beauty, further establishing its position among Belgium's lesser-known, yet captivating towns. Dinant, famous for its imposing Citadel, is definitely a place to explore, and this new train service is a clear advantage for those seeking a less traveled path in Belgium. It remains to be seen how significantly the train service increases the town's tourism, but the potential for growth is undoubtedly there.

Dinant, a town nestled along the Meuse River, is about to become significantly more accessible for visitors with the launch of a direct train service from Brussels Airport in the fall of 2024. This new route, anticipated to reduce travel times to roughly an hour and a half, offers a faster and potentially more convenient alternative to the usual two-hour car journey. This change might attract a different type of visitor to this area, perhaps bringing in more nature enthusiasts interested in the area's distinctive karst landscape. It will be interesting to observe the impact on tourism and if it encourages exploration of this area's unique geological formations.

Dinant, often associated with its musical heritage as the birthplace of saxophone inventor Adolphe Sax, could potentially witness an increase in musical performances and festivals if tourist numbers rise. The train service might provide a boost for the local economy, especially in the hospitality sector and local food scenes. The town could very well develop a niche as a culinary tourism destination.

Dinant's historical significance, embodied by its imposing Citadel overlooking the town, could benefit from easier access for those interested in medieval history. This new route might potentially bring more visitors to the many smaller churches and old cafes dotted around town, reviving some interest in Dinant's heritage.

The new train line could also become an important part of the travel plans of business travelers attending conferences in nearby Waterloo. This added ease of travel could positively impact Dinant's economy through new collaborations with other local businesses.

Dinant, with a history marked by military conflicts, including its role in World War I, might see an increase in visitors interested in its past. Whether it becomes a more popular destination for military history enthusiasts remains to be seen.

The town, with a current population of only about 13,000, could experience a significant change in its dynamic as day-trippers from Brussels become more commonplace. This increased influx of visitors may also create new urban planning challenges as the town adapts to a potentially larger flow of tourists.

One of the obvious upsides of the new train service is the likelihood of more affordable travel options. Train tickets are often less expensive than driving, factoring in fuel and parking costs, especially for longer journeys. This could benefit budget-conscious travelers seeking alternatives to visiting well-known areas and potentially steer more visitors to towns like Dinant.

Belgium is known for having an extensive and efficient railway system. The investment into this new route to Dinant speaks volumes about how the country continues to enhance its regional transport infrastructure. It remains to be seen if this will become a successful case study for improving accessibility and attracting visitors to smaller, historic towns. It's definitely worth observing how all of these elements play out.

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Ypres Introduces Night Tours of World War I Sites With New Light Installation

The city of Ypres, a significant location during World War I, has introduced nighttime tours of its historical sites, incorporating new light installations to enhance the experience. Ypres is known for its pivotal role during the Great War, with battlefields like Hill 60 and memorials like the Menin Gate drawing in large numbers of visitors each year. These night tours, led by guides who aim to honor the soldiers who fought there, offer a different perspective on the history of the region. The new lighting is part of Ypres' attempt to attract more visitors and bring attention to its rich historical heritage. It remains to be seen whether this new addition truly elevates the visitor experience and whether it will draw more people to Ypres, which, for many travelers, might be overshadowed by more popular Belgian destinations like Bruges and Brussels. It is interesting to see Ypres' efforts to modernize the presentation of its war-related historical sites and find ways to engage modern tourists through immersive experiences, and this night-tour concept is part of a broader trend among many tourist destinations.

Ypres, a town forever linked to the tragedies of World War I, is now offering nighttime tours of its significant battlefield sites. These tours incorporate a new light installation designed to highlight these historically important locations in a novel way. The installations utilize advanced LED technology, which allows for both energy efficiency and a visually striking presentation of the sites.

Ypres, of course, is deeply rooted in the history of the war. The Menin Gate is a prominent example, bearing the names of over 54,000 soldiers who perished in the region. The nightly Last Post ceremony held at the gate is a poignant tradition, continuing even through the trials of World War II. These sites, often presented in daylight, can now be experienced in a different way.


These new nighttime tours smartly leverage the Flanders Field's dark skies. The installations are much more visible in this setting, offering a distinct contrast that enhances the mood and creates a sense of dramatic depth. This also brings stargazing to the forefront, which can be an often-missed opportunity in many historical settings.

The integration of modern technology into the nighttime experience is another element of these tours. Projection mapping is one example, creating interactive elements that enhance understanding of the history of the area. This interactive approach helps to make some of the more challenging or complicated historical concepts easier for modern visitors to appreciate.

Ypres has also taken great care to rebuild many of its original structures, like the Cloth Hall. They have used 21st-century engineering techniques to do so. These reconstructions effectively combine modern construction with the historical intent, a fascinating example of how historic preservation can work in the modern era.

The light installations aren’t merely aesthetically pleasing. They use sensors and smart technology to adjust based on weather conditions. The light shows are thus optimal no matter the time of day or season. This is an example of a growing trend in tourism: embracing technology to ensure visitor experience remains a priority.

Many of the sites in the area are within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underlining their importance on a global stage. This designation likely provides funding for future preservation efforts and boosts overall international interest.

While Ypres’ history is heavily tied to war, the region is also a significant wine producer. This proximity of winemaking to military history could lead to some interesting opportunities for blending culinary experiences with historical insights, perhaps appealing to different visitor demographics.

The extended hours offered by the nighttime tours also impact local businesses in Ypres. Tourists will likely be looking for food, lodging, and other shopping experiences after the tours. This could inject new activity into the nighttime economy, hopefully supporting smaller businesses.

The engineering and design that have gone into these restoration and lighting projects highlight a broader pattern in Europe. There's an ongoing effort to balance historic authenticity with contemporary aesthetics. This collaboration between engineers and architects helps create spaces that honor the past while being enjoyable for those who visit today. It signals an approach to heritage tourism that is forward-thinking.

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Tournai Cathedral Reopens Gothic North Tower After 40 Years of Restoration

Tournai Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belgium, has completed a major restoration project on its North Tower, a prominent feature of its blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. After 40 years of meticulous work, which started in 2006, the tower, a towering presence at 36 meters high and part of a building stretching 134 meters in length, is now accessible to the public again.

The restoration aimed to reinforce the structural integrity of the cathedral and reveal hidden architectural details. Along with the general renovation of this section, visitors can now observe the results of a significant investment in preservation and learn more about the building's history and architectural significance. Tournai, as Belgium's oldest town, is a less explored historical gem compared to Bruges and Brussels. This cathedral restoration makes it all the more appealing for those wanting a less crowded destination to explore Belgium's heritage.

The cathedral itself provides a glimpse into Belgian history and art. Visitors can learn more through guided tours or a 20-minute 3D documentary, enriching their understanding of the cathedral's role in the area's past and architectural heritage. The fact that it has reopened to the public again might prompt many to consider Tournai as a destination when planning a visit to Belgium beyond the more obvious choices. The city itself also offers other things to do like the TAMAT Centre for Tapestry Wall Arts or a preserved 19th century Natural History Museum, catering to those who seek more variety on their trip.

It is still uncertain how this might change tourism in Tournai, but it could make this part of Belgium a more attractive option for people who want a different experience of history and architecture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.

Tournai Cathedral, also known as Notre-Dame de Tournai, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. One of its most distinctive features is the Gothic North Tower, a rare architectural element in Gothic cathedrals. Completed after a 40-year restoration effort in 2024, this tower offers a glimpse into the advanced engineering of the medieval period. The tower's design prioritizes verticality and light, showcasing ambitions that resonate with modern architectural ideals.

During the restoration, engineers used techniques drawing from ancient stone masonry practices to guarantee structural stability. They also relied on detailed 3D models created through laser scanning, ensuring that the repairs respected the original building methods. This towering structure reaches a height of 83 meters, making it one of the tallest Gothic features in Belgium. This incredible height reflects the medieval builders' ambition to create awe-inspiring spaces.

The €9 million restoration project, funded by both public and private sources, demonstrates the value placed on preserving historic sites and their potential economic benefits through tourism. The restoration uncovered fascinating artifacts like corroded tools and pottery from the 12th century, offering insights into the cathedral's original construction and medieval life.

The intricate sculptures adorning the tower's façade, crafted from local limestone, depict biblical figures and provide a visual record of medieval craftsmanship. These techniques have been carefully studied and even incorporated into modern architecture classes, highlighting the historical continuity of craft.

The cathedral's alignment with Tournai's north-south axis reveals the early urban planning principles that were common in many historic cities. Tournai's Cathedral wasn't just a local example of Gothic design, it influenced later architectural developments, including some design elements that are seen in Paris' famous Notre-Dame. This demonstrates the significance of Tournai in the development of architectural styles.

Though Tournai remains relatively less known compared to larger Belgian cities, the tower's reopening could serve as a catalyst for tourism. It's a city with a rich history spanning over 2,000 years and a diverse architectural landscape from Roman to Baroque. The reopening of the North Tower reflects a wider trend among European cities. It appears that many cities are attempting to blend modern tourism strategies with preservation efforts. Such endeavors may offer models for other historic towns looking to balance economic growth with preserving their heritage. It's a notable attempt to create spaces that resonate with the past while satisfying the needs of contemporary visitors.

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Mechelen Converts 15th Century Monastery Into Boutique Hotel Opening March 2024

Mechelen, a town often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Brussels and Antwerp, is poised to become a destination in its own right with the opening of a new boutique hotel in March 2024. The hotel is a transformation of a 15th-century monastery, a fascinating example of how historic buildings are being reimagined for modern use. This unique hotel will combine the monastery's old architecture with modern design elements, potentially creating an atmosphere unlike any other.

Located a short train ride from both Brussels and Antwerp, Mechelen offers a convenient base for those wanting to explore Belgium, without the large crowds found in the more popular cities. It appears the town itself is banking on its quieter charm, hoping to appeal to a growing number of travelers who seek out less-traveled paths. It’s interesting to see Mechelen's decision to move in this direction. It seems that Belgium has seen other former religious structures repurposed into hotels, but it will be interesting to see if this trend attracts enough visitors to make a true difference.

The hotel might encourage more visitors to explore Mechelen, a town with a unique historical and cultural identity. One can only hope that the hotel is successful and draws more visitors to this region. It may serve as a beacon of a new type of tourism, where visitors look for authenticity and local experiences beyond what is typical and familiar. Time will tell if Mechelen can leverage this unique offering to become a recognized tourism hotspot.

A 15th-century monastery in Mechelen, Belgium, is being repurposed into a boutique hotel, slated to open in March 2024. Originally established by the Order of Regular Canons, the monastery’s historical context provides a unique narrative for future visitors. Its architecture exemplifies a transition from Gothic to Renaissance design, showcasing the engineering brilliance of the late medieval era.

The renovation incorporates modern engineering, with structural simulations and material analysis ensuring the historical integrity of the building. Situated in a town that was a significant medieval trading hub, known particularly for textiles, the hotel may draw on these economic roots with culinary experiences and collaborations with local producers.

The design is meant to blend the luxurious with the monastic, including a tranquil courtyard, which seems like a clever way to connect visitors with the history of the site. Mechelen itself is a hub for history buffs, with the nearby St. Rumbold’s Cathedral boasting a UNESCO World Heritage designation due to its remarkable 97-meter tower. This proximity will probably encourage guests to explore the city's historical narrative beyond just the hotel itself.


Furthermore, Mechelen’s strategic location between Brussels and Antwerp makes it well-suited for those relying on Belgium's efficient rail network. However, even with this accessibility, Mechelen has often remained in the shadow of larger Belgian cities. The boutique hotel's opening, as part of a broader trend, aims to draw attention to smaller towns and their historical significance. This endeavor could have far-reaching effects on the local economy, opening new avenues for tourism in less frequently visited areas.


The project also serves as an excellent example of adaptive reuse, highlighting the delicate balance between preserving history and adding contemporary functions to old buildings. This raises thought-provoking questions about the fate of comparable sites across Europe that are facing pressures to modernize. It will be interesting to observe how the hotel attracts a specialized niche of traveler, perhaps including those focused on culinary experiences, and if that changes how people perceive Mechelen in the larger Belgian culinary scene. The hotel, with its blending of past and present, may be able to shed a new light on Mechelen's significance beyond its status as a simple transit point.

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Tongeren Unveils Roman Archaeological Finds at New Underground Exhibition Space

Nestled in Belgium, Tongeren boasts the distinction of being the country's oldest city, and now it unveils a captivating new attraction: the Teseum. This underground exhibition space is a treasure trove of Roman archaeological discoveries, providing a unique glimpse into the city's past.

One of the highlights of the Teseum is its dramatic presentations within the ruins of a Roman villa destroyed in 275 AD. The remains offer a powerful reminder of the devastation the city experienced centuries ago. Tongeren's significance in Roman times as the administrative center is emphasized by this exhibit.

The Teseum houses a permanent exhibition, thoughtfully titled "From Neanderthal to Gallo-Roman," which takes visitors on a journey through 2,000 years of human presence in the region. This journey through time reveals the deep roots of the area's history.

For those interested in exploring Roman heritage further, the Gallo-Roman Museum in Tongeren is a must-visit. Renowned as Flanders' premier archaeological museum, it has earned the European Museum of the Year Award, underscoring its importance in the field. The museum provides a more detailed exploration of Roman daily life and architecture, including a fascinating 3D model of the Roman town. It effectively completes the picture of Tongeren's past.

Considering its history and recent additions to the cultural landscape, Tongeren is an excellent stop for history buffs who venture beyond the tourist hubs of Brussels and Bruges, offering a truly unique and less crowded look into Belgium's deep past.

Tongeren, Belgium's oldest city, has recently opened a subterranean exhibition space called the Teseum, showcasing a remarkable collection of Roman archaeological finds. These artifacts, including pottery, coins, and tools, date back to the first century AD, offering a captivating look into daily life during the Roman era. The Teseum's climate-controlled environment is a testament to modern museum design, emphasizing the importance of preserving fragile historical remnants.


Tongeren's significance stems from its role as the site of the Roman settlement, Atuatuca Tungrorum. Its strategic location made it a crucial trade hub, facilitating the exchange of goods across the sprawling Roman Empire. This underscores the crucial role geography plays in facilitating historical trade networks. Interestingly, excavations in the region have unearthed Roman fortifications that predate many European castles, revealing the sophisticated military architecture employed to defend against invaders during the early centuries.


The Gallo-Roman Museum, recognized as the top archaeological museum in Flanders and a recipient of the European Museum of the Year Award, houses a permanent exhibit titled "From Neanderthal to Gallo-Roman." This collection traces human habitation in the region over the last 2,000 years, including a detailed 3D town plan of Atuatuca Tungrorum. The plan showcases the layout of ancient structures such as villas and temples, shedding light on the Roman urban landscape.


The museum's underground location, three meters below the surface, presents a unique perspective on Tongeren's history. Ancient stones found there narrate the city's story and that of its inhabitants. One intriguing highlight is the Roman amphitheater, built in the second century AD. This structure, one of Belgium's oldest, speaks to the significance of public gatherings and entertainment in Roman life. The Teseum uses cutting-edge preservation techniques, like 3D imaging and replication, offering engaging visitor experiences while safeguarding the artifacts themselves.


This new underground museum reflects a wider trend in heritage preservation. Multifunctional spaces are being developed to house collections without harming the buildings or affecting environmental conditions. Tongeren's Roman past significantly shaped the city’s design. Its influence can still be observed in modern city planning, demonstrating the enduring impact of ancient civilizations on contemporary society.


Furthermore, archaeological discoveries in Tongeren reveal the presence of ancient trade routes predating modern logistics networks. These finds hint at advanced supply and distribution systems in ancient societies, challenging simplistic ideas about technological progress. The Teseum is likely to draw international tourists, which could not only elevate Tongeren's profile as a heritage destination but also bolster the local economy. It's certainly interesting to see if Tongeren's successful efforts can challenge the long-held assumption that tourism is concentrated solely in Belgium's larger cities.

8 Hidden Historic Towns in Belgium Beyond Brussels and Bruges (A Fall 2024 Guide) - Chimay Opens Microbrewery Experience in 18th Century Castle Cellars

Nestled amidst the scenic hills of Belgium, the charming town of Chimay has opened a new attraction: a microbrewery experience housed in the atmospheric cellars of an 18th-century castle. This interactive journey invites visitors to explore the long and storied history of Chimay's well-regarded Trappist beers and cheeses. A permanent exhibition, filled with interactive displays and exhibits, details the secrets of the brewing process and offers a peek into over 150 years of craftsmanship.

The experience is designed to immerse visitors in Chimay's brewing heritage through interactive modules, including a fascinating animated model of the abbey and a virtual glimpse into the brewery's past. Once they've completed their tour, guests are treated to a complimentary beer tasting, a perfect ending to their foray into Chimay's brewing tradition. It remains to be seen how this microbrewery experience will influence tourism in the area. It certainly appears that Chimay hopes to leverage its history and heritage to attract a different kind of visitor compared to Belgium's more famous destinations.

Situated near the town, the picturesque gardens of Scourmont Abbey offer another attraction for visitors seeking a relaxing break after exploring the microbrewery. The abbey and gardens are open to the public and offer a serene environment to complement the more industrial aspect of the microbrewery experience. Overall, the Chimay Experience appears to offer a new opportunity for travelers to delve into Belgium's hidden cultural gems beyond the typical tourist trails, especially those interested in artisanal culinary endeavors.

Chimay's decision to open a microbrewery experience in the cellars of an 18th-century castle is intriguing from an engineering perspective. The castle's age and construction likely offer a naturally stable environment. Maintaining constant humidity and temperature in cellars is crucial for the fermentation process, suggesting a natural synergy between historical architecture and brewing technology. It’s a testament to how buildings from that era were often remarkably well-suited for certain industrial processes.

Chimay's brewing legacy dates back to 1862, established by Trappist monks. They have developed unique yeast strains over time, which likely play a key role in their distinct beer flavors. The use of these carefully cultivated strains is a fascinating example of how meticulous breeding and maintenance can lead to unique characteristics in beer production, in stark contrast to the often more standardized processes of large-scale beer production.

It seems they are embracing some of the benefits of modern brewing technologies while carefully integrating those with traditional methods. This presents a clear challenge in their production line - how to balance historical authenticity with the need for production optimization. It's a complex endeavor that could become a model for breweries that want to balance old and new practices.

Chimay's location in a biodiverse area likely offers advantages in sourcing ingredients. Using local flora and fauna in the brewing process can contribute distinctive characteristics to the final product. This is reminiscent of the "terroir" concept in winemaking, where the local environment plays a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile. It is also likely more sustainable to utilize local ingredients.

The castle itself is an intriguing testament to the historical context of the area. Its ability to withstand the test of time and numerous historical events, shows the impressive resilience of historical building practices, which is in part due to clever use of local materials. This raises questions about how older methods in construction might be more suited for modern challenges, like rising temperatures and weather patterns.

As a Trappist brewery, Chimay operates under strict regulations concerning production quality and purity. These standards seem to resonate with a growing consumer trend, where people seek authenticity and a deeper understanding of where their food comes from. This suggests a growing niche market, where high-quality and ethically produced goods are valued.

The microbrewery incorporates a space where visitors can observe the brewing process, fostering a learning and entertaining experience. This transition from a passive observational experience to more active and engaging interactions is something that is occurring in many other industries. It will be interesting to see if this is a successful approach to bring a more educational aspect to tourism.

The science of brewing is continually evolving. Modern analytical chemistry allows brewers to understand their ingredients better. They can also get a far better insight into the chemical process during fermentation, giving them a more controlled environment during production. Chimay is most likely utilizing these advancements to refine its beer recipes and ensure greater consistency and quality.

This fusion of culinary tourism, history, and architecture is a winning combination in today’s travel market. Tourists are often searching for unique experiences that are not offered in standardized tourist traps. The combination of an UNESCO-recognized brewing tradition with a well-preserved medieval setting is a successful combination to entice tourists.

The opening of this microbrewery will likely have a positive impact on the local economy. It will most likely not just attract beer enthusiasts but also set a great example for other towns who are pondering similar projects. The sheer number of visitors alone will have a multiplier effect on the local economy through a range of businesses.