The best walks and hikes around Villers-Cernay

The most famous representative of the dynasty, Godfrey of Bouillon (Duke of Lower Lorraine, c. 1060 to 1100), takes us back in time to the late 11th century. Geographically, however, the life story of this man takes us far from his homeland: across the Mediterranean to the Holy Land. He participated as a leading figure in the First Crusade and the conquest of Jerusalem. After the city's capture, he was to become king of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem, but he rejected such a title, arguing that the only king over Jerusalem could be Christ himself, who was crucified and buried here—and resurrected.

The Pont de Liège in Bouillon is the oldest bridge over the Semois River and marks a historic crossroads of trade routes between Verdun and Liège. Mentioned since 1069, this wooden bridge was originally built to facilitate river traffic and connect the city to major trade routes. Although its current appearance differs from the original construction, its location remains a significant point, reflecting Bouillon's medieval origins. Located near the city center, the bridge is a logical passage for those approaching the castle.

On the grassy slope leading to the medieval castle of Bouillon stands a stone statue of Godfrey of Bouillon. He wears a crusader's cloak and rests his hand on a large, vertical shield, symbolizing his role as defender of the Holy Sepulchre. Unlike triumphant equestrian statues, this understated monument portrays a thoughtful and protective figure, closely linked to Bouillon's local history. Its strategic placement along the walking path makes it a visually recognizable and historically charged passage for visitors exploring the castle.

The statue has now been refurbished.

You can only "ponter" in Bouillon, on the Pont de Liège. The Semois River is spanned by six bridges and two pedestrian walkways in Bouillon (the city and its surrounding villages). The Pont de Liège in Bouillon, however, is unique because only there can you indulge in the favorite pastime of every young Bouillon native. This is "ponter." Je ponte, nous pontons, on a ponté... This locally coined verb is impossible to translate without losing its subtlety. The saying goes: "Savoir ponter comme tout bon Bouillonnais" (To ponter as all good Bouillonnais). To hang out, chat, look around, or meet, sitting or leaning on the wall or in one of the recesses. That's "ponter." (House of Bouillon)

The fortified castle of Bouillon is situated on three rocky ridges and offers stunning views of the city. During your visit, you can also take in a falconry performance. Falconry was a true art form during the Middle Ages. You can conclude your visit with the Scriptura Museum, which chronicles the history of education, and the exhibition of the fresco "The Armed Pilgrimage of Godfrey of Bouillon." The castle is open daily.

you can walk all around the castle

Bouillon Castle is a hilltop castle above the Belgian town of Bouillon in a narrow loop of the Semois river. The complex was built in the 11th century and converted into a fortress in the 17th century. The time when the castle was built is unclear. Its strategic importance lay in controlling the north-south route from Reims via Liège to Aachen between Upper and Lower Lorraine. The complex was expanded into a proper castle under Godfrey III between 1050 and 1067. It was the center of the rule of the House of Ardennes. Godfrey V pawned the castle to Otbert of Liège in 1096 in order to be able to cover the costs of the first crusade. The castle thus became the property of the Bishopric of Liège. In 1134, Raymond de Bar conquered the castle. Bishop Albero II of Liège had the castle besieged in 1141 and the Count of Bar had to cede it back to the bishop. Since 1330 the dominion was called a duchy (Wikipedia).