Butte Baltia, Historical monument in Waimes, Belgium.
Butte Baltia stands at Signal de Botrange with a circular stone base measuring 14 meters across and features an internal stone staircase leading to an upper platform. The structure rises prominently above the surrounding landscape, creating a distinct landmark in the region.
The monument was commissioned in 1923 by Lieutenant General Baron Baltia to mark Belgium's highest point following the territorial changes of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. Its construction documented the new borders established after World War I.
The monument displays inscriptions honoring King Albert of Belgium and marks the integration of the Eastern Cantons into the nation following World War I. These inscriptions remain visible to visitors climbing the structure today.
The location at 700 meters altitude makes the climb up the stone stairs a short but rewarding activity with good views across the area. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes to navigate the steps easily.
Two classified boundary stones rest near the base, the Tranchot stone from 1801 and a marker from 1889, documenting distinct historical periods of territorial control. These stones tell the story of how borders shifted across nearly a century.
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