Watermael-Boitsfort / Watermaal-Bosvoorde, municipality in the Brussels-Capital Region, Belgium
Watermael-Boitsfort or Watermaal-Bosvoorde is a municipality in the Brussels-Capital region, extending southeast with parts covered by the Sonian Forest. The area consists of residential neighborhoods with older villas and modern homes, interspersed with green parks, tree-lined streets, and quiet streets.
The area has roots in Carolingian times with a church possibly dating to the 10th century and recognized by the pope in the 12th century. Later Bosvoorde developed as a hunting ground for dukes and emperors, with a hunting lodge beside the Sonian Forest that was destroyed and rebuilt several times.
The place names reflect its agricultural and hunting heritage - Watermael refers to water and mills, while Bosvoorde points to forest hunting grounds. Today residents and visitors use the green spaces for walks and gatherings, with old churches and houses maintaining connection to earlier times.
The municipality is easily reached by public transport such as buses, which provide connections to the city center and other parts of Brussels. Streets are wide enough for walking and cycling, and there are numerous parks and green areas for resting and exploring.
The place contains several heritage-protected buildings including the old town hall from 1845 and Ter Coigne castle, which together preserve a rich history. The southern section is dominated by the Sonian Forest, an extensive woodland area popular with walkers that connects the municipality with nature.
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