Discover Mons through our art tour – a city in full transformation
Bergen has long since ceased to be a hidden gem. Since the city was named European Capital of Culture in 2015, it has firmly put itself on the map. With its culture, architecture and constantly innovative urban developments, it is a forward-looking city, a promising place to live and study.
Through this art route, we take you along some of the city's landmarks.
(1) Rue à Degrés – The Whale Mural
We start in Rue à Degrés, by the impressive mural of a whale. This artwork refers to animals threatened with extinction by climate change. A powerful visual symbol that fits perfectly with the city's social commitment.
(2) Sint-Germainsplein – ‘Spread Your Wings’
Rue de Samson brings you to Sint-Germainsplein, where Filip Gilissen's artwork “Spread Your Wings” invites you for a creative photo. From here you also have a nice view of the imposing Saint Waltrude's Church, inspired by Leuven's Gothic Saint Peter's Church.
(2) Notre sales ambassador Mikail Van den Hende devant la statue ‘Spread Your Wings’.
(3) Forecourt of St Waltrude's church - 'Lucie and the Butterflies'
In the square in front of the church, you will find the work “Lucie et les Papillons” by artist David Mesguich. The statue shows a figure breaking a pair of scissors in two. A symbol showing that love is stronger than heartbreak. The butterflies represent infatuation, the scissors the end of it. But in Mons, love is allowed to be endless: breaking the scissors stands for infinite love.
On this square, among others, the ‘DouDou Feasts’ also take place every year. A summer tradition for which the whole city comes together for a full week of festivities. And immediately the inspiration for the name of our new pearl in Mons: Do Upkot ;) .
(3) Lucie et les papillons
(4) Mons railway station
Walk on to Mons' brand new railway station, officially opened in 2024. Designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, it is a handsome example of modern symmetry and connection. The station connects the old and new parts of the city and therefore has entrances on both sides. Students and travellers arrive weekly at a beautiful and accessible station. Be sure to take the escalator up to admire its beautiful interior.
(4) Gare de Mons
(5) I ❤️ Mons-sign
On the way back, you pass the popular I ❤️ Mons sign. Pose for a moment, smile, and capture a memory.
(5) Le panneau I ❤️ Mons
(6) Belfry of Mons
Next, you will arrive at the Belfry of Bergen, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A climb to the top is worthwhile, as the views over the city are nothing short of spectacular.
(6) Beffroi de Mons
(7) Inner garden of City Hall & Grand Place
Walk past the courtyard garden of the Town Hall and take the narrow tunnel towards Mons' lively Grand Place. At the exit of the tunnel on your right, you will come across the famous lucky monkey “Le Singe du Grand Garde”. According to local tradition, rubbing it with your left hand brings good luck.
(7) ‘Le Singe du Grand Garde’
End your visit with a drink on one of the many terraces in the market square, where you can feel the city's vibrant energy.
Are you in the area? Then come take a look at Do Upkot, our latest and third Upkot project in Mons that is under construction. Did you know you can also invest in this project? Interested? Then don't hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to give you some more info.