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Oud-Rekem
Village in Flemish Region From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Oud-Rekem is a village in the Lanaken municipality of the Limburg province of Belgium. The village is considered one of the most authentic villages of Belgium.[2][3] Since 1994, it is protected as a monument.[4]
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History
Oud-Rekem was first mentioned in 1140 as Radekeim.[4] The village was first a heerlijkheid. In 1356, it became a barony, and was elevated to county in 1623.[5]
During the 16th, 17th and 18th century, the town was located in a heavily contested area. Oud-Rekem was plundered, and had to station troops on multiple occasions.[4] In 1602, the first walls were erected around the town. Between 1625 and 1630, a second layer of defence was erected. In 1638, a third wall was built in between the first and second. Even though the walls were removed between 1825 and 1836, traces are still visible.[4]
In 1795 or 96, Oud-Rekem became part of Rekem,[5] and in 1977, the municipality was merged into Lanaken.[6]
In 1994, the old centre was protected as a monument.[4] Oud-Rekem won the election for most beautiful village of Flanders in 2008.[3][7]
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Sights
The Aspremont-Lynden Castle is located in the centre. The original castle dated from the Carolingian era. A larger castle was built in 1350 and existed until 1507. In 1597, the current castle was built by Count Herman d'Aspremont-Lynden. In 1792, the castle was confiscated by the French who demolished parts of the building. In 1921, the castle became a psychiatric hospital. The castle is surrounded by a large garden.[8]
The Oude Weerd is a nearby nature reserve which consists of grasslands, hedges, and pools. It is home to badgers and beavers.[9]
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References
External links
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