Day of the Flemish Community in Belgium 2023: Date, History, Facts about Flanders

Day of the Flemish Community in Belgium is a historical occasion commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of the Golden Spurs, which is observed on July 11. The day is celebrated with a grand festivity at the Grand Palace and Place de la Monnaie in Brussels, despite not being an official holiday. Live music, guided visits, and children’s activities commemorate the decisive victory of the Flemish in 1302.

The background of Day of the Flemish Community

The celebration dates back to 1302, when Flemish citizens of Bruges rebelled against King Phillip IV of France and attacked French governors of Flanders. In response, the monarch dispatched an army of 2,500 knights and squires with the support of 5,000 infantry to punish the citizens of Flanders.

On July 11, an apparent one-sided battle occurred in an open field outside the Flemish city of Kortrijk (Courtrai) between the army of the monarch and 9,000 Flemish militia (an army of non-professional civilian soldiers), consisting primarily of infantry. One might assume that the massive army of the French monarch would have easily defeated the local militia.

But not quite. It was a decisive victory for the Flemish community in which Robert II of Artois, the commander of the French army, was captured and slain on the battlefield. In addition, the town militia slaughtered at least a thousand French cavaliers and gathered tens of thousands of golden spurs from their fallen adversaries, which gave the battle its name.

The Day of the Flemish Community commemorates the great victory over the French on July 11 by closing government offices, celebrating at the Grand Festival, and organising cultural events.

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5 FLANDERS FACTS THAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW

Flemish artists have continued to create history, as evidenced by Paul Van Hoeydonck’s “Fallen Astronaut” painting.

The Coastal Tram is the longest tram line in the globe, with 42 miles of track.

Flanders is a tiny region with the highest concentration of gourmet restaurants in the globe.

Belgium produces over 1,600 unique beverages!

Brussels is the original birthplace of chocolate, dating back to 1635.

DAY OF THE FLEMISH COMMUNITY DATES