Perched at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, Namur is a city steeped in stone ramparts, regal citadels, and echoes of ancient sieges. It has played host to Roman legions, Burgundian dukes, and battalions from every corner of Europe. But perhaps its most delicious legacy came not from conquest—but from a freezing winter mistake that gave the world its most beloved side dish.

The Winter the Fish Froze—and Potatoes Took Their Place

It was the late 17th century, and Namur was enduring one of the cruelest winters on record. Villagers living along the Meuse traditionally survived by fishing in the river and frying small fish to sustain themselves during the lean months.

But that year, the Meuse froze solid.

With no fish to fry, and a deep fryer full of hot oil already crackling, locals got creative. They turned to the humble potato—slicing it into thin strips, shaped like the tiny fish they were used to cooking, and tossing them into the oil.

The result? Golden, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth slices of heaven.

And just like that, “fries” were born in Namur—by accident.

🇧🇪 But wait—aren’t French fries… French?

Ah, the age-old culinary controversy. While Americans dubbed them “French fries,” Belgians have long insisted that the origin lies squarely within their borders—and Namur locals will tell you they did it first (and better). In fact, many food historians agree: the practice of deep-frying potatoes likely started in the Meuse valley, not Parisian bistros.

📍 Visit the Heart of the Legend: Citadel of Namur
🛡️ Tip: The panoramic views are incredible—but don’t miss the underground tours, where soldiers once hauled barrels of gunpowder... and maybe a sack of spuds or two.

📍 Maison des Desserts
🍟 Tip: Their fries are legendary—and their house mayo is practically a cultural artifact. Ask for the story; they’ll be happy to share.

Namur Today: Forts, Frites, and Folklore

While its culinary claims might spark debate, there’s no doubting Namur’s deep sense of identity and tradition. From its annual Combat de l’Échasse (a centuries-old battle on stilts!) to its blend of French finesse and Walloon wit, the city remains proud, playful, and full of surprises.

Don’t Miss:

• The Belfry of Namur: A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering sweeping views and chiming tales of the past.

• The Archaeological Museum: Housed in an old meat hall, because in Namur, history and food go hand in hand.

• Les Bateliers District: A charming maze of quiet lanes, old artists’ studios, and hidden wine bars.

Planning Your Visit

• Getting there: Trains run regularly from Brussels and Luxembourg, and the city is very walkable. Bring comfy shoes for the citadel climb!
• When to go: Spring and early autumn are ideal. For local flair, visit during September’s Wallonia Festival, where stilts and storytelling rule the streets.
• Pro Tip: Try the fries from a riverside friterie—and skip the ketchup. Belgians go mayo, or not at all.

Why This Story Matters

We often think history is written by swords and treaties. But sometimes, it’s carved by knives, dipped in oil, and eaten on a park bench with a side of mayo.

Namur isn’t just a city of walls and warriors—it’s the unsung birthplace of a global snack, born of desperation, innovation, and the irresistible power of potatoes.

So go to Namur. Walk its ramparts. Taste its history. And never look at your fries the same way again.

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