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Driving Holidays to Mons

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Mons is a Walloon city that is the capital of the Belgian province of Hainaut, about forty miles south of Brussels close to the French border. Located on a small hillside, Mons is at the point at which the Canal du Centre and the Conde-Mons Canal verge, for many years being the main shipping centre for the Borinage district.

In the 7th Century St Waudru founded a monastery here and today the Cathedral that is dedicated to him is the main attraction in the city, while the centre has to be the Grand Place, lined with quaint cafes and the striking 15th century Hotel de Ville, with an iron monkey on the front wall, that legend claims will bring happiness if stroked with the left hand.

The town of Mons has long been famous for its military significance. It is the site for the first and last of the British battles in WWI, in 1944 the Americans claimed a huge victory here and it has continued to be a substantial Military base since 1967. With a substantial population of around 90 thousand including a number of American and NATO nationals, it is not surprising to find that Mons is a lively modern centre yet has managed to maintain all the charming characteristics of a small Belgian city. Mons is proud to be crowned as the European Capital of Culture for 2015.

 
Church of St. Waudru
Boasting some of the most striking Brabantine and Gothic architecture in the region, this 15th century collegiate church is regarded as one of the city's major symbols. Inside the church there are many works by sculptor Jacques Du Brœucq.
 
The Four Lifts
Situated on a short stretch of the the historic Canal du Centre between Mons and La Louvière, this series of hydraulic boat lifts were built in 1888 by the John Cockerill company and inscribed onto the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1998.
 
Fine Arts Museum
Filled with some of Belgium's best artwork, this museum delves into the celebrated history of painting in the Lowlands. On show are numerous pieces from both local and international artists, making for an ample and extensive collection.
 
Military History Museum
Mons has a fascinating military history and this comprehensive museum is filled with artifacts and documents from years gone by up to the present day, helping to tell the story of Belgium's armed forces.
 
City Hall
Dating back to the 15th century, this grand structure is is located at the very heart of the city, with the lush gardens and Ropieur fountain to the rear. The bronze monkey at the entrance to the building is said to provide good fortune if you stroke its head.
 
François Duesberg Museum
Located on the site of the former National Bank of Belgium, this intriguing museum is home to an amazing collection of objects from the 18th and 19th century, including porcelain, silverware and clocks.

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