Roeselare

Roeselare is a Belgian city located in West Flanders

  • Historic
  • On the river
  • Parks & green space
  • Peace and quiet
  • Shopping
  • Walkability

Roeselare

Roeselare is a Belgian city located in West Flanders, and is perhaps most famous in the wider world for being the location of the Rodenbach brewery, which is renowned for producing traditional Flemish red ales. Although lacking some of the well preserved historical appeal of other Belgium cities, Roeslare does have much to recommend it, not least the fact that you won’t have to fight your way through massed ranks of tourists to take a look at a selection of sights and buildings, both historical and modern, which are well worth going to see.

History

The history of Roeselare dates back to prehistoric times, based on the discovery of flint tools, whilst the remains of Gallo-Roman wells and 9th century buildings help to trace its development over the centuries. It was first mentioned in writing in the year 822 and was granted the vitally important right to build fortifications and hold its own public markets as early as 957. Over the years, the city rose to prominence on the basis of the fabric industry, and was later held under Spanish rule for many decades. The period of Spanish rule didn’t begin to come to an end until the 17th and 18th centuries, and it was during this time that notable buildings such as the city hall and the Rodenbach brewery were constructed. During the 20th century Roeselare, like much of Belgium, was adversely effected by the impact of the First and Second World War and bombing during World War Two, in particular, is thought to have destroyed up to two thirds of the city. Modern Roeselare has risen from this sometimes difficult backdrop to become the regional commercial and media centre that it is today.

Map

Main features

Roeselare Market square

The city of Roeselare is located in West Flanders, not far from Bruges. The city has a long history, embodied in the ancient architectural structures, and it is therefore not surprising that Roeselare receives more and more visitors every year. 

A significant monument in the town is the Renaissance town hall, decorating Market square Roeselare. Near the tower of the town hall is the statue of St. Michael, standing guard over the city. Now in the town hall is the city hall. On the Eastern side of the square is the Gothic monastery of Gray Franciscan sisters. 

It is worth noting that most of the buildings in the area have historical value and include in its design elements from different eras. In the centre of the square there is a fountain and plenty of cafes where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery with your friends. Also on the square is built Parking space in the centre which shows a plan of the city of 1704.

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