Tongeren

Tongeren is a city in the Belgian province of Limburg, located in the southeastern part of the Flemish region of Belgium. It holds a special place in history as the oldest town in Belgium. During Roman times, the area was known as Atuatuca Tungrorum and served as an important administrative center. The city was home to a group of people called the Tungri.

Today, Tongeren remains a place where history comes alive. Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins and learn about life many years ago. On January 1, 2025, Tongeren became part of a new combined municipality called Tongeren-Borgloon, bringing it together with another nearby area. The city's rich past continues to attract people interested in Roman history and old European towns.

History

Atuatuca Tungrorum

The Romans called Tongeren Aduatuca Tungrorum. It was the capital of the Roman area known as Civitas Tungrorum, which covered parts of modern Belgian Limburg and nearby regions. Before the Romans, the area was home to tribes known as the Germani cisrhenani, including the Eburones, who lived around Tongeren.

During Julius Caesar’s time, the Belgae tribes, led by the Eburones, fought against Roman forces. Later, the Tungri became the main group in the area, giving Tongeren its name. The city grew as an important Roman town, located on a key road between Cologne and Bavay. It had Roman buildings and was surrounded by farms. In 70 AD, a fire damaged the city during a revolt. By the second century, Tongeren had defensive walls, some of which can still be seen today.

Middle Ages

In the fourth century, Tongeren became a center for Christianity under Saint Servatius, the first bishop of Tongeren. Over time, the bishop’s seat moved to nearby Maastricht, and later to Liège. The city faced challenges from invasions and changes in leadership. During the Carolingian period, a new church and religious buildings were constructed. The current basilica began building in the thirteenth century in the Gothic style. The city also grew with new churches, cloisters, and commercial areas. It became one of the “good cities” of the Prince-Bishopric of Liège.

From seventeenth century until contemporary age

In 1677, French troops burned much of Tongeren, and the city took many years to recover. After 1830, Tongeren became part of Belgium. During World War I, German troops occupied the city, causing some damage and loss of life. It was later liberated by Belgian forces. In World War II, the city suffered bombings and was eventually liberated by Allied troops. In 1977, several nearby towns merged with Tongeren. Today, Tongeren is the judicial capital of Belgian Limburg.

Main sights

Tongeren has many interesting places to see. The Béguinage, started in 1257, is a special area for people who lived together for peace and quiet, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Basilica of Our Lady is a big church built in the 13th century with beautiful old items inside.

Other sights include the Gallo-Roman Museum with old treasures, parts of the original Roman wall still standing, and a statue of Ambiorix from 1866. You can also visit the Pliniuspark with a natural spring and see modern art like Púmpkëskal.

Events

Tongeren holds special celebrations called the Kroningsfeesten or “Coronation Celebrations” every seven years. These events remember when a special statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary was crowned long ago in 1890. The celebrations include a big religious parade, one of the largest in Belgium. The most recent one happened in July 2016.

The city also hosts a popular antiques fair every Sunday. It is the biggest fair of its kind in the Benelux countries.

Sports

Tongeren has a strong women's volleyball club called Datovoc Tongeren, which plays at the top level in Belgium. The city's most famous football club is K.S.K. Tongeren.

Famous inhabitants

Ancient times

Tongeren was home to important people from ancient times. Ambiorix, a leader who fought against Roman invaders, is linked to the town, though we don’t know exactly where he lived. Saint Servatius brought Christianity to the Netherlands from Tongeren. Other notable figures include Saint Helier, a holy hermit, and Radulph of Rivo, a historian.

Modern times

In more recent times, Tongeren has been home to many well-known individuals. Honoré Gabriel Riqueti, comte de Mirabeau was a French politician. Valentinus Paquay was a beloved priest. Philippe Boesmans became a famous composer, and Robert Cailliau helped create the World Wide Web. The city has also produced sports stars like football players Gaëtan Coucke and Cyriel Dessers, as well as cyclists and politicians.