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Offered languages
- German
- English
Step into the chilling and deeply inspiring story of Leuven, a city that was systematically reduced to ashes not once, but twice and stubbornly refused to die. On this immersive walking tour, you will uncover the tragic events of August 1914, when a medieval center of learning was consumed by fire, sparking global outrage. From hidden architectural scars to grand monuments of international solidarity, discover how a traumatized community chose beauty, memory, and resilience over ruin.
- A 2.6 km self guided tour with 6 stops over 92 min
- Ideal for travelers interested in History and Memory and Urbanism, Infrastructure and Innovation
- Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals
- Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
From Leuven's main station, take local public transport toward Martelarenplein and the Peace Monument. Get off at the nearest stop and walk the final few minutes to Martelarenplein and the Peace Monument, Leuven, Belgium. Check the current local connection on the day of travel.
From Universiteitsbibliotheek, walk to the nearest public transport stop and travel back to Leuven's main station. The departure point is Universiteitsbibliotheek, Leuven, Belgium. Check the current local connection on the day of travel.
Itinerary
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1
The square where the 1914 reprisals began, featuring the Peace Monument honoring the fallen civilians.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Universiteitshal
The site of the original University Library, which was deliberately burned down in 1914, destroying centuries of knowledge.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Oude Markt Leuven
Known as the 'longest bar in the world', this historic-looking square is actually a meticulous post-WWI reconstruction.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Saint Peter's Church
The city's main church, which survived catastrophic fires in 1914 and bombings in 1944, standing as a scarred testament to survival.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Leuven
A square named after the US President who led the massive humanitarian effort to feed Belgians during WWI.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6University Library & Bell Tower
The monumental library built with American aid, which tragically burned down again in WWII before being rebuilt a final time.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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