Stavelot

Stavelot is a Walloon municipality located in the Belgian province of Liège. The municipality consists of the following sub-municipalities: Stavelot proper, Francorchamps, and Coo.

History

Stavelot was founded circa 650 by Saint Remaclus, a Benedictine monk. The Stavelot Abbey, housing the museums of the Principality of Stavelot-Malmedy, a historical museum and a car museum, is very popular with tourists.

Geography

Stavelot is located in the Walloon region of Belgium, in the province of Liège. It is situated in the hills of the Ardennes, a region known for its dense forests and rugged terrain. The town is bordered by the Amblève River, which adds to its scenic beauty.

Culture

Stavelot is known for its traditional Carnival, the Laetare of Stavelot, which is one of the oldest in Belgium. Participants in the carnival wear white masks and red costumes, a tradition that dates back to the 16th century.

Economy

The economy of Stavelot is largely based on tourism, with many visitors attracted by the natural beauty of the Ardennes, the historical sites, and the famous Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, which hosts the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix.

Notable people

Several notable people hail from Stavelot, including poet Guillaume Apollinaire and Formula One racing driver Jacky Ickx.

See also

• List of protected heritage sites in Stavelot
• Prince-Bishopric of Liège