Discover the rich history and culture of Oudenaarde in the city’s museums and heritage sites. From art and heritage to cycling, there is plenty to discover.
Oudenaarde has a remarkably rich past. If you enjoy discovering culture and history during your travels, you will find plenty of fascinating museums, historic buildings and remarkable heritage sites in and around the city.
MOU – Museum of Oudenaarde and the Flemish Ardennes
The MOU is housed in the magnificent historic Town Hall on Oudenaarde’s Market Square. Here, you can discover the history of the city and the Flemish Ardennes in an engaging and interactive way.
The story takes you from the Middle Ages to the present day and introduces fascinating figures such as Emperor Charles V, Margaret of Parma and Adriaen Brouwer. The centuries-old tapestry industry and the art of gold and silversmithing also have a prominent place in the museum.
For centuries, Oudenaarde was an important centre for tapestry production. At the MOU and in the adjoining Cloth Hall, you can admire a beautiful collection of Oudenaarde tapestries. The museum also houses an impressive collection of silverware, one of the most important collections of its kind in Flanders.
The MOU is also worth visiting for the building itself. The Gothic Town Hall and its Belfry form one of the most recognisable landmarks of Oudenaarde. The Belfry is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
More information about the MOU
Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen – Tour of Flanders Centre
Oudenaarde and the Tour of Flanders are inseparably linked. At the Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen, you can experience the atmosphere of Vlaanderens Mooiste and discover the story behind one of the world’s most famous cycling races.
Today, the centre has developed into a true cycling hub. Alongside the exhibition, you can rent bicycles, explore cycling routes and join guided rides. Various activities are also available for groups, while the Peloton Café is a welcoming stop for cyclists and visitors alike.
For cycling enthusiasts, a visit is an absolute must. But even if you are not a cyclist yourself, this is a great place to experience the unique atmosphere of Flemish cycling culture.
Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen
Ename Heritage Site
Just a few kilometres from Oudenaarde lies Ename, a small village with a remarkably rich past. A thousand years ago, Ename was an important settlement on the River Scheldt. Today, you can discover its history at several fascinating locations.
The Provincial Heritage Site Ename is the perfect starting point for exploring this remarkable area. At the Heritage Centre, you can learn about Ename’s history and the archaeological discoveries made in the region. The nearby Archaeological Park reveals the remains of the medieval Benedictine abbey.
The PAM Ename also tells the story of the village and everyday life in times gone by. Interactive elements and family trails make the visit enjoyable and educational for children too.
Be sure to combine your visit with a walk through Ename, taking in the historic St Lawrence’s Church and the beautiful Ename Wood.
Provincial Heritage Site Ename
St Walburga’s Church
St Walburga’s Church is one of Oudenaarde’s most striking landmarks. Its impressive tower rises high above the historic town centre and has been a defining feature of the city skyline for centuries.
The church is a fine example of Gothic architecture. Together with the Town Hall and the many other historic buildings, it tells the story of Oudenaarde’s rich past.
A walk through the historic centre is therefore not complete without taking a closer look at St Walburga’s Church and its surroundings.
Discover Oudenaarde at your own pace
History, art and architecture are never far away in Oudenaarde. The MOU, Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen, Ename and the many historic buildings are all located within a relatively compact area and can easily be combined during a day trip.
You can easily alternate a museum visit with a stroll through the historic town centre, a cycle ride along the River Scheldt or a relaxing drink on a terrace overlooking the Market Square.
Oudenaarde is not only an ideal base for exploring the Flemish Ardennes. It is also a destination where you can discover centuries of history within a short distance, while enjoying art, heritage, nature and the warm atmosphere of the city.