An identity that's unique in Europe
Certain of its exceptional character and of the impact of its legends, the sincerity and devotion of its people and the power of its landscapes, the Ardennes is a land where emotions run high. More than just a hilly region with its own language and climate, the Ardennes identity is a state of mind, it embodies values such as courage, resistance, joviality, attachment to its roots, a fondness of the mysterious, and mindfulness of living in another world that's so miraculously preserved. Since the dawn of time, the force of nature and the vast forest range of the Ardennes, home to wild animals and rocks sculpted by untamed rivers, have attracted a succession of civilisations.
The Ardennes and the Ardennes people, a land and a personality that both leave an impact
A cultural melting pot in a fount of nature
From the Paleolithic hunters and gatherers to the Celtic farmers, and even to the modern-day inhabitant, the peoples of the Ardennes all share the same respect for this invigorating nature that has shaped their temperament. Of the cultures that are deeply rooted in the Ardennes, that of the Celts survived the region's evangelisation by... Irish monks. This mixing of cultures partly explains why the Ardennes identity is truly like no other.
The keys to discovery
Even now, this fascinating culture is still present in the Christian and pagan legends and beliefs that accompany the day-to-day lives of the local people. It can also be observed at the museums of the Ardennes. The Celtic Museum is devoted to the tombs of Gallic chiefs, those immensely brave warriors who were so feared by Roman soldiers, and envied by the Mediterraneans for being so highly civilised. Ambiorix, one of the only chiefs to decimate two of Cesar's armies does, after all, symbolise their cunning, as do the 4 sons of Aymon who later faced Charlemagne, or the Ardennes hunters who stood up to the enemy. Is this not proof of an innate capacity to resist?
The metal industry and technical evolutions are behind the Prehistohan centre's collection of treasures. Other key sites like the Ferme des Fées (fairy farm) and the Piconrue Museum/Maison des Légendes give an overview of the life, traditions and mysteries of the Ardennes.
