Museums in Waterloo
Museums in Waterloo
Dive into the heart of Waterloo's history
Waterloo is a city profoundly marked by the famous Battle of 1815. Even today, it is home to several must-see museums and monuments retracing this major event in European history. By staying at the Van der Valk Hotel Waterloo, you can easily explore these iconic sites and experience a unique immersion into the past.
The Memorial to the Battle of Waterloo 1815
Heritage & Remembrance
Located just a few minutes from the hotel, the Battle of Waterloo Memorial retraces one of Europe's most significant clashes. In 1815, 300,000 soldiers from seven nations fought here, and 11,000 lost their lives. The site includes:
The Lion’s Mound, a monumental landmark 40 meters high.
The Rotunda, housing the 110-meter-long panoramic painting.
Two immersive films retracing the events.
Commemorative monuments paying tribute to the victims. An unmissable site to understand the historical significance of this battle.
Visit the Lion’s Mound
Symbol of Waterloo
At the heart of the memorial, the Lion’s Mound has dominated the landscape since 1826. Its 4.5-meter-high lion overlooks the battlefield, symbolizing the return of peace. Climb its 226 steps to reach the summit and enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the former battlefield. An impressive experience and one of the most famous viewpoints in Belgium.
The Wellington Museum
Living History
Located just a 15-minute walk from the hotel, the Wellington Museum served as the Duke of Wellington’s headquarters during the battle. This authentic building now houses:
Period artifacts
Military maps
Original uniforms and documents
An audio guide for an enriched visit Opposite the museum, you can also discover St. Joseph's Church, remarkable for its grand dome dating back to 1690. A must-visit for all history enthusiasts.
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