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®Utopix_HyacintheÉmile Verhaeren, the poet of Honnelles
When Émile Verhaeren, the famous Belgian poet, first set foot in the lands of Honnelles, he thought he would die of boredom. A century after his death, we never tire of rereading the texts he wrote in the municipality he eventually came to cherish. The Verhaeren Museum in Roisin tells this surprising story.
It was somewhat by chance that Émile Verhaeren discovered Roisin. While visiting a friend who was resting at Léon Laurent’s inn after the death of her husband, he discovered the landscapes of Roisin, Caillou-qui-Bique, and Angreau, and literally fell in love with the area. From 1899 to 1914, he stayed many times at Léon Laurent’s inn. Over time, he would even call it "my home."
"Verhaeren walked through the woods, but also through the vast plains," explains René Legrand, President of the ASBL Mémoire d’Émile Verhaeren and guide at the Verhaeren Museum. "He talked to the trees, the plants, the branches, the birds... He was called the fool of the woods. Contrary to what one might think, he did not live in seclusion in the village; he visited the farmers, the clog makers, and did not hesitate to talk to the locals. He forever marked the history of Roisin," the guide says, visibly moved.
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Utopix_HyacintheThe Verhaeren Museum: a journey into poetry and history
In the former inn where Émile Verhaeren loved to stay, discover a museum that traces the life and work of this world-renowned Belgian poet. A visit full of cultural and historical discoveries.
In the charming village of Roisin, the Verhaeren Museum invites you to dive into the world of one of Belgium's greatest poets. Located in the inn that was his refuge from 1899 to 1914, this museum traces the life, work, and impact of Émile Verhaeren, called the "national poet" by King Albert I. You will discover reproductions of manuscripts, accounts of his travels across Europe, and his exchanges with major artistic figures like Rodin, Seurat, and Verlaine.
In addition to celebrating the career of a world-renowned artist, the Verhaeren Museum explores the rich cultural life of Roisin at the turn of the 20th century, when it was a true artistic crossroads. You will be transported to a world where poetry, nature, and human encounters intertwine, in landscapes that forever marked Verhaeren’s inspiration.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover a place steeped in history and culture, where you’ll understand why the whole world came to Roisin. An enriching visit that will delight art, history, and literature enthusiasts.
Visit address: 23, Rue Émile Verhaeren, Roisin (Honnelles)
Open Sundays and holidays from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM, from April to October. A must-stop during your exploration of Honnelles.
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Utopix_HyacintheThe Pierres Circuit: a poetic walk in the heart of Honnelles
Follow in the footsteps of Émile Verhaeren through a 4 km loop, blending nature and poetry.
Starting at the Émile Verhaeren Memorial Monument, located just a short walk from the museum dedicated to him, the Pierres Circuit invites you on a unique hike combining art and nature. Along this marked route, stone blocks engraved with the poet’s most beautiful verses mark your path, immersing you in the sensitive and captivating world of the author.
This walk, mainly through wooded areas, follows the Grande Honnelle River, winding between rugged rocks to the mythical Caillou-qui-Bique. You will cross the river and walk through the fields surrounding the village of Roisin, offering a picturesque scene at every turn.
This short hike, accessible to all, is ideal for lovers of peaceful walks and cultural discoveries.
Starting point: Verhaeren Memorial Monument in Roisin.
A 4 km circuit that is a must-try during your visit to the region!
