La Roche en Ardenne
This charming town, hidden in a valley on a bend of the Ourthe River, is one of the main tourist attractions in the area. Popular thanks to the ruins of a feudal castle, the Battle of the Bulge museum, and the wildlife park. Meat lovers are attracted by the reputation of the hams produced here, especially the Ardennes ham, which has brought fame to the entire region. Fans of active recreation will choose to walk through the surrounding forests or kayak in the picturesque surroundings.
Feudal Castle on the Hill
Built in the 9th century, the castle was expanded over the next five hundred years by subsequent rulers, adding walls, towers and bastions. From the 12th century, the fortification began to play a strategic role in the protection and development of the trade center, which became a significant stop on the wool route from England to Lombardy. At the beginning of the 17th century, the castle came into French possession. In the 18th century, on the orders of the Habsburgs, it was partially demolished. Massive Allied air raids in 1944 contributed to the complete destruction of the castle. Today, the ruins towering over the city are the main tourist attraction of La Roche en Ardenne. Interesting falconry shows take place here.
Museum of the Battle of the Bulge
Two history enthusiasts, Michael Bouillon and his son Gilles, have been collecting memorabilia related to the Battle of the Ardennes for years. When the number of artifacts collected grew to enormous proportions, they decided to open a museum in 1993. Currently, 1,500 square meters of space tell the story of the war operations that led to the liberation of the city from German occupation. La Roche en Ardenne was liberated by English troops under the command of Marshal Bernard Montgomery, who lost about 200 soldiers.
Among the museum exhibits we can find many uniforms, including those donated by veterans who fought in the battle, 90 pieces of machine guns and pistols, as well as the famous Enigma cipher machine.
Among the museum exhibits we can find many uniforms, including those donated by veterans who fought in the battle, 90 pieces of machine guns and pistols, as well as the famous Enigma cipher machine.
