Congoberg, Protected hill monument in Vollezele, Belgium
Congoberg is a protected natural monument in Galmaarden featuring trails through pastures where Belgian draft horses graze. The hill offers views across the Dendervallei and the valley of Hof te Leysbroek.
The site served as a camp during prehistoric times, as demonstrated by Neanderthal finds from excavations conducted between 1985 and 1986. These discoveries reveal the ancient importance of this location for early human settlement.
The hill displays a sculpture by Koenraad Tinel titled 'The Abduction of Europa', which shows a female figure positioned on a bull. This artwork has become part of how visitors experience and remember the landscape.
Two cycling routes reach the summit: a western path starting from Vollezele and a northern cobblestone route from Denderwindeke. Both routes are accessible for different starting points and visit preferences.
The name originates from local coal miners who returned home from Hainaut mines covered in coal dust, appearing dark as oil. This etymology reflects the historical connection between the community and the mining industry of the region.
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