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For other uses, see Huy (disambiguation).
Huy, view from the bridge (le Pont du Chemin de Fer) with the fortress (Fort de Huy), two churches (la collégiale Notre-Dame) and (Saint-Domitien) and the Tihange nuclear power plant

Key Information

Huy (French: [ɥi] ⓘ or [wi] ⓘ; Dutch: Hoei [ɦui]; Walloon: Hu) is a city and municipality of Wallonia located in the province of Liège, Belgium. Huy lies along the river Meuse, at the mouth of the small river Hoyoux. It is in the sillon industriel, the former industrial backbone of Wallonia, home to the Walloon population.

The municipality consists of the following districts: Ben-Ahin, Huy, Neuville-sous-Huy, and Tihange.

History

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The first village originated around the Roman castrum, an early fortress located on the right bank of the river Meuse. The village was evangelized by Saint Domitian, bishop of Tongeren in the 6th century and the town is mentioned for the first time in a 7th-century testament (as Hoius vicus, taking its name from the river Hoyoux).

In the early Middle Ages, Huy was one of the most prosperous cities on the Meuse, with a flourishing economy based mostly on metallurgy, but also on tanning, sculpting, woodworking, and wine-making. In the 10th century, Huy was promoted to county status, but soon became part of the Prince-Bishopric of Liège, with which it would share its history for more than eight centuries. Huy was the recipient of the first historically known charter north of the Alps, confirming it as a city in 1066. It is around that time that Peter the Hermit harangued the locals and persuaded them to participate in the First Crusade, having already participated himself in the People's Crusade and the Rhineland massacres in 1096.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, the economy boomed thanks to the cloth industry. The castle on a hill right in the middle of town, was used in times of war and strengthened accordingly. By the 15th century, it had become the symbol of the city. The following two centuries, however, witnessed a gradual decline in the city's fortunes, due in large part to the strategic value of its location on the Meuse. In the latter part of the 17th century, Louis XIV's wars caused the city to be repeatedly attacked and put to the sword, to the point that the frustrated inhabitants dismantled their own castle, source of their miseries, in 1715.

A new fortress was built by the Dutch in 1818 at the same strategic location above the town, called Fort de Huy. The 19th century was a period of relative prosperity based on the paper and other industries. The decline of heavy industry in the 20th century was felt here, as in other parts of Wallonia. Today, the city has started to prosper again, thanks in part to its tin products and tourist activity.

In 1970, the Tihange Nuclear Power Station was built nearby.

Folklore

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Every seven years, a religious procession takes place in the so-called 'septennial festivities' in commemoration of the end of a drought in 1656. The last one took place on 15 August 2019.

Main sights

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See also: List of protected heritage sites in Huy

The four 'wonders of Huy' are (in Huy dialect):

  • Li Pontia, the bridge over the River Meuse
  • Li Rondia, the rose window of the Gothic Notre-Dame collegiate church
  • Li Bassinia, the 15th-century fountain that stands in the middle of the Grand Place
  • Li Tchestia or the Citadel of Huy, the 1818 fortress that dominates the city
  • 'Li Pontia'
    'Li Pontia'
  • 'Li Bassinia'
    'Li Bassinia'
  • 'Li Tchestia'
    'Li Tchestia'

Cycling

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Huy is home to the finish of La Flèche Wallonne (English: Walloon Arrow; Dutch: Waalse Pijl), an important 1-day cycling race held midweek in mid-April. The race traverses, and finishes, at the summit of the Mur de Huy (English: Wall of Huy), a climb of about 1 kilometer with an average gradient of 10%, with sections of 20%. Huy has also been used in the Tour de France four times: 1995, 2001, 2006 and 2015.

[edit]

Huy was used as a location for the first series of the 2014 BBC television drama series The Missing.[2]

Famous persons

[edit]

International relations

[edit]
See also: List of twin towns and sister cities in Belgium

Twin towns – Sister cities

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Huy is twinned with:

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  • Huy town hall
    Huy town hall
  • Huy train station
    Huy train station
  • Old street of Huy
    Old street of Huy
  • City and fortress
    City and fortress

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Huy

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Huy is a historic city and municipality in the province of , , , located along the River at the confluence with the Hoyoux River. With a population of 21,850 (2025 est.) and covering an area of 47.7 square kilometers, it serves as a key destination in the Condroz region, celebrated for its millenary heritage, , and strategic position between the larger cities of and . The city's origins trace back to the Roman era, when a castrum, or fortified settlement, was established on the right bank of the in the AD to control river traffic and defend against invasions. By the , the area was evangelized, and the name "Huy" first appeared in official documents during the , marking its evolution from a Roman outpost to a significant medieval . Huy received its first city charter in 1066, one of the earliest north of the , granting it commercial privileges and autonomy that fostered its growth as a trading hub for metals, textiles, and river commerce along the . Among Huy's most defining landmarks is the of Notre-Dame and Saint Domitien, a Gothic masterpiece constructed between 1311 and 1536, featuring Belgium's largest Gothic , Europe's tallest one-piece stained-glass window, and a Romanesque from earlier structures. Overlooking the city is the Citadel of Huy, a formidable fortress built between 1818 and 1823 by Dutch authorities on the site of a medieval castle, which later served as a prison for political dissidents and during housed over 1,200 deportees before becoming a dedicated to resistance and concentration camps. These sites, alongside the cobbled streets of the old town and annual events like the Ducasse de Huy festival—a honoring the city's —highlight Huy's enduring cultural and historical significance.

Geography

Location and topography

Huy is situated in the region of , specifically within the province of , at geographic coordinates 50°31′N 05°14′E. The city lies along the River, positioned at the with the smaller Hoyoux River, which contributes to its strategic riverside setting. This location places Huy in the Condroz natural region, serving as a transitional zone between the flatter lowlands and the more rugged plateau to the south. The municipality encompasses a total area of approximately 47.7 km², with its urban center developed primarily on the right bank of the . It includes several districts: Ben-Ahin, Huy (the central area), Neuville-sous-Huy, and Tihange, which extend across both riverbanks and incorporate surrounding rural landscapes. These districts reflect a blend of built-up zones along the river and more dispersed settlements in the adjacent terrain. Huy's topography is characterized by the broad River valley, which provides fertile lowlands, contrasted by surrounding hills and escarpments typical of the Condroz. Notable features include steep inclines such as the , a 1.3 km climb with an average gradient of about 9.3% and sections reaching up to 26%, rising from the river valley to an elevation of 204 m. The area's proximity to the region, roughly 20-30 km south, influences its varied relief, with rolling hills and valleys supporting both agriculture and recreational paths. The has historically facilitated trade routes through this landscape.

Climate

Huy features a temperate (Köppen Cfb), heavily influenced by westerly Atlantic air masses that bring mild temperatures, persistent high humidity, and consistent rainfall distribution across the seasons. This maritime influence moderates extremes, preventing severe heatwaves or deep freezes while maintaining moist conditions that foster a verdant landscape. Summer months are comfortably warm, with average temperatures around 18°C; July typically sees daytime highs of 22°C and nighttime lows of 14°C. Winters remain above freezing on average, at about 3°C, though January brings cooler conditions with highs of 5°C and lows near 0°C. Annual averages approximately 900 mm, spread evenly but with slightly higher amounts in autumn and winter, often resulting in frequent overcast skies—up to 76% cloud cover in December. The region's proximity to river valleys contributes to occasional , particularly in cooler months when moist Atlantic air settles in low-lying areas, enhancing the damp atmosphere. Mild winters, with rare dips below freezing, combined with ample moisture, promote lush vegetation and a prolonged of over seven months.

History

Origins and medieval period

The origins of Huy trace back to the Roman period, when a castrum, or fortified camp, was established on the right bank of the River around the 1st or AD, serving as a strategic outpost in the region. This early settlement laid the foundation for Huy's development as one of 's oldest urban centers, located at the confluence of the Hoyoux and Mehaigne rivers. By the 6th century, the area was evangelized by Saint Domitian, the bishop of Tongeren-Maastricht, who is revered as Huy's and is believed to have died around 558 AD; his efforts marked the transition to Christian influence in the post-Roman landscape. In the medieval era, Huy emerged as a key settlement within the , receiving its city charter in 1066 from Theodwin, which granted privileges to the bourgeois citizens and is recognized as the oldest surviving charter north of the in the region. This document spurred social and economic growth, positioning Huy as a fortified trading hub along the , where its strategic river location facilitated commerce between , , and the while providing defensive advantages. The medieval economy thrived on , particularly copper craftsmanship exemplified by 12th-century artists like Renier de Huy, alongside tin production that supported regional brass-working; cloth trade, known as drapery, flourished as Huy exported textiles to markets like Cologne; and tanning contributed to leather processing, integral to the Meuse Valley's industrial activities from the onward. A pinnacle of medieval Huy's prosperity was the construction of the , a Gothic structure begun in 1311 with the choir completed by 1377 and the full edifice finished in 1536, incorporating a Romanesque and housing significant Mosan silverwork reliquaries. This church, dedicated to Our Lady and Saint Domitian, symbolized the town's religious and cultural ascent, blending radiant and flamboyant Gothic styles while underscoring Huy's role as a prosperous center under the Prince-Bishopric.

Modern history

During the late 17th and 18th centuries, Huy experienced significant decline due to repeated wars and economic disruptions. The Siege of Huy in 1694, during which Allied forces recaptured the city from French occupation, devastated the area and severely impacted its trade-based prosperity along the Meuse River. Further instability arose from the , culminating in the of 1715, which prompted local residents to dismantle the medieval Citadel of Huy in 1717, viewing it as a magnet for conflict and occupation. These events shifted Huy from a medieval trading hub to a quieter provincial town, with economic activity hampered by shifting regional powers and reduced river commerce. Following 's independence in 1830, Huy was incorporated into the new Kingdom of as part of the Province of Liège in , benefiting from the stability of the young nation's industrial expansion. In 1818, prior to independence but under Dutch rule in the , construction began on the modern Fort de Huy to secure the Valley; completed in 1823 on the site of the demolished medieval castle, it served primarily as a military prison rather than an active fortress. The fort housed political prisoners during the of 1830 and later events like the 1848 uprisings, establishing its role in regional security and incarceration. During , from May 1940 to September 1944, the Germans transformed Fort de Huy into a detention camp under control, interning over 7,000 political prisoners and hostages, many of whom were deported to concentration camps like Neuengamme. Notable detainees included Communist leader , and the site became a grim symbol of Nazi repression in , with conditions marked by harsh interrogations and overcrowding in its dungeons. Postwar, the fort was repurposed as a museum and memorial, preserving its history without further military use. The postwar era brought economic revitalization to Huy, particularly with the opening of the in 1975 on the River near the town. This facility, Belgium's largest nuclear plant with three reactors that historically generated about 25% of the nation's electricity (as part of Belgium's nuclear output providing around 50%), created thousands of jobs and spurred local growth; by the 1980s, it employed over 1,000 workers, with many Huy residents and families directly benefiting from its operations. However, Unit 1 was permanently disconnected from the grid on September 30, 2025, after 50 years of operation, while Units 2 and 3 continue to operate. The station's presence diversified the economy beyond traditional industries like paper and , contributing to stability and development in the region. In recent decades, Huy has focused on to enhance and connectivity. The Téléphérique des Vallées cable car project, opened in April 2024, links the riverbank to the Fort de Huy and Mont Mosan park via a 1,500-meter route, promoting sustainable mobility and attracting over 5,000 passengers in its first five months. This initiative, featuring two modern cabins for up to 15 passengers each, has boosted visitor numbers to the fort by revitalizing access to historic sites and green spaces, marking a key step in Huy's contemporary development as a tourist destination.

Demographics

The municipality of Huy recorded a population of 21,964 inhabitants as of September 1, 2025, marking an increase from 21,706 in 2024 and 21,293 in 2018. This growth reflects an average annual rate of about 0.3% over the period, driven primarily by net regional migration within Wallonia. With a total area of 47.64 km², the population density stands at approximately 461 inhabitants per km². Historically, Huy's population expanded from 19,028 in 1900, reaching a post-World War II peak of around 19,000 in the late before a temporary decline to 17,331 in 1981 amid economic shifts and trends. The subsequent stabilization and gradual recovery since the 1990s have been influenced by and proximity to larger centers like , with the population surpassing 21,000 by the early , resulting in a more balanced growth pattern compared to earlier industrial-era booms. Population distribution across districts shows Huy center housing about 14,900 residents (2024), Ben-Ahin about 3,700, and Tihange (including Neuville-sous-Huy) about 3,100. Projections from Statistics Belgium indicate a continued increase to around 22,000 by 2030, sustained by ongoing regional migration. The population remains predominantly French-speaking.

Ethnic and linguistic composition

Huy's population is ethnically homogeneous, with the vast majority identifying as Belgian of origin, reflecting the town's location in the Francophone region of . According to official statistics from 2021, approximately 97% of residents hold Belgian nationality, while foreign nationals account for about 3% of the total, drawn primarily from countries such as (the largest group with around 287 individuals), (204), and (198), alongside smaller numbers from over 100 other nationalities. Linguistically, the community is overwhelmingly Francophone, with French serving as the official and dominant spoken by more than 95% of inhabitants, in line with Wallonia's regional profile. The Walloon dialect, specifically its Eastern variant prevalent in areas like Huy, , and , persists in informal and cultural contexts, particularly among older generations, though its daily usage has declined due to the standardization of French in and media. Religiously, Catholicism remains the predominant affiliation, with around 45% of Wallonia's population, including Huy, self-identifying as Catholic amid broader secular trends across as of 2024. is low, with only 8.9% of reporting regular participation in as of 2022. The town's fort was repurposed as a detention and transit camp for persecuted groups between 1940 and 1944.

Government and politics

Local administration

Huy is governed by a municipal council consisting of 27 elected members, responsible for local and oversight. The current , or bourgmestre, is Christophe Collignon of the PS+ (Parti Socialiste Plus) coalition, who assumed office following the 2024 local elections and serves as the head of the executive college. The municipality is divided into four administrative districts—Ben-Ahin, Huy, Neuville-sous-Huy, and Tihange—each managed through neighborhood committees that address local issues such as community events, maintenance, and resident concerns. Huy's annual budget is approximately €64 million for ordinary operations (as of 2025), with allocations emphasizing heritage preservation, including maintenance of historic sites like the , and infrastructure improvements such as road and public space upgrades. As part of Belgium's federal structure, Huy falls within the in the , integrating local decisions with provincial and regional policies.

Political landscape

Huy's political landscape is dominated by the Parti Socialiste (PS), representing socialist interests, and the Mouvement Réformateur (MR), a liberal party, mirroring the left-leaning orientation prevalent in . These parties have historically shaped local governance, with PS maintaining a strong voter base focused on social welfare and regional development. In the October 2024 local elections, the PS+ list, led by incumbent mayor Christophe Collignon, secured 38.3% of the vote and 11 seats in the 27-member communal council, retaining its position as the largest party despite a slight decline from previous terms. The local progressive list HUY en COMMUN followed with 23.6% and 7 seats, while MR obtained 19.6% for 5 seats; smaller parties like Les Engagés (12.1%, 3 seats) and PTB (6.4%, 1 seat) filled the remainder. Voter turnout in Huy aligned with Wallonia's regional average of 87.7%, reflecting compulsory voting norms but a slight decline from prior elections. Huy's politics align closely with Wallonia's socialist-leaning trends, where PS emerged victorious in the June 2024 regional elections, emphasizing progressive policies on employment and environment. The national rightward shift in the concurrent federal elections—highlighted by gains for the Flemish nationalist N-VA—had minimal repercussions in francophone Huy, where right-wing parties remain marginal. Key issues include environmental concerns surrounding the nearby Tihange Nuclear Power Plant, whose Unit 1 shutdown in October 2025 raised debates on energy security and job losses, as well as urban development challenges like housing expansion and modernization.

Economy

Primary industries

Huy's primary industries trace their origins to medieval , where the town's strategic location along the River and the power of the Hoyoux enabled the establishment of forges and furnaces for processing metals like and tin. By the , production had become a of economy, with goods exported widely across , supported by skilled metalworkers known as "Febvres" who formed influential guilds. This artisanal base laid the foundation for Huy's reputation in , which persisted through the centuries despite periods of disruption from conflicts. In the , the metallurgical sector expanded alongside emerging industries such as , further integrating Huy into broader networks and enriching local entrepreneurs. This historical expertise has evolved into contemporary small-scale and precision , where firms leverage traditional skills for modern applications in and components. The , operational since 1975 and a major employer with approximately 1,000 staff across its three pressurized water reactors, represents a pivotal shift toward energy-related industry—its construction in the early 1970s marked a significant economic as noted in the modern history; however, Unit 1 was decommissioned in October 2025, while Units 2 and 3 continue to operate. The sector has also emerged as a vital component, capitalizing on Wallonia's agricultural hinterland with activities centered on , milling, and agro-related products. Notable examples include operations at Moulins de Statte, which produce and specialty grains, contributing to the processing of local harvests into value-added goods. Overall, industry accounts for about 10.4% of local in Huy, part of a broader mix estimated at around 8,000 individuals across primary sectors, though services dominate the . Recent developments reflect alignment with Green Deal directives post-2020, fostering transitions toward sustainable practices in and energy production to enhance long-term viability, including strategies to manage the economic impacts of the nuclear phase-out.

Tourism and services

Huy's tourism sector is a vital economic driver, attracting visitors to its heritage sites and cultural events, including the renowned Cherry Festival held in the Tihange district. The service sector dominates Huy's employment landscape, encompassing retail outlets, hospitality establishments such as hotels situated along the River, and , with the local unemployment rate at roughly 6% in 2024. In the post-COVID recovery period from 2023 to 2025, Huy has experienced notable expansion in eco-tourism initiatives, bolstered by funding allocated for cultural preservation efforts that enhance sustainable visitor experiences.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Huy's transportation infrastructure facilitates connectivity within and beyond, primarily through road, rail, and innovative aerial systems along the River. The town benefits from its position on major routes, enabling efficient access for residents, commuters, and tourists. The road network centers on the E42 motorway, which provides direct access to Huy from to the east and to the west, forming part of the European E42 corridor linking and . Local roads cross the via key bridges, including the historic Pont de Huy and the modern Pont de Fer, supporting daily urban mobility and regional travel. Traffic volume on the E42 near Huy averages approximately 48,000 vehicles per day, reflecting moderate congestion typical of Walloon motorways. Rail services operate from Gare de Huy, located on the Brussels-Liège line (SNCB line 125), offering hourly (IC) trains to major hubs like (about 1 hour) and (20-25 minutes). These services run throughout the day, with around 37 daily connections to alone, enhancing commuter and tourist access. The station integrates with sustainable options through the VeloWallon regional bike-sharing network, featuring rental stations nearby for seamless bike-rail combinations. A notable recent development is the urban cable car, known as the Téléphérique des Vallées, which reopened in 2024 after modernization. This 1.3 km jig-back system connects the town center on the banks to on the Sarte plateau, operating at speeds up to 30 km/h and spanning a 131-meter gain. Equipped with two cabins each accommodating 15 passengers (including for bikes and reduced-mobility users), it serves both —offering panoramic views—and daily , with over 32,000 passengers recorded in its first season and expectations for around 40,000 in 2025.

Energy and utilities

The , located on the right bank of the River within the of Huy, has historically served as a primary energy source for the region and contributed substantially to Belgium's national electricity supply. The facility originally comprised three pressurized water reactors: Tihange 1 (962 MW, operational 1975–2025), Tihange 2 (1,008 MW, operational 1983–2023), and Tihange 3 (1,038 MW, operational since 1985). As of November 2025, following the shutdown of Tihange 2 on January 31, 2023, and Tihange 1 on September 30, 2025, only Tihange 3 remains operational under an extended license until 2045, providing a capacity of 1,038 MW and accounting for approximately 5% of Belgium's total electricity production capacity. In 2025, Belgium's parliament repealed the 2003 nuclear phase-out law, allowing selective lifetime extensions for Tihange 3 and Doel 4, while nuclear energy overall provided about 42% of the country's domestically generated electricity in 2024. Electricity and natural gas distribution in Huy and surrounding areas is managed by ORES, the leading intermunicipal distribution system operator in , which oversees networks serving over 2.7 million customers across 228 municipalities. supply is handled by the Société Wallonne des Eaux (SWDE), sourcing primarily from the River—treated at facilities like the one in Loyers—and supplemented by and reservoirs to meet the needs of approximately 3.5 million Walloon residents. services, coordinated through regional frameworks, achieve a municipal rate of approximately 60% in Huy as of 2024, emphasizing sorted collection of , plastics, metals, , and organic waste to align with 's circular economy targets. Sustainability efforts in Huy's energy sector have accelerated since , with solar photovoltaic installations on public buildings such as schools and administrative centers, supported by Walloon Region subsidies that have facilitated over 1,000 regional projects to boost renewable integration. Additionally, EU-funded pilots, including ORES-led initiatives under the program, are testing dynamic network management and demand-response systems in to enhance grid resilience and accommodate rising renewable inputs, with demonstrations in areas like Huy. These measures complement the nuclear plant's economic impact by fostering local jobs in green technology sectors.

Education

Primary and secondary schools

The education system in Huy, part of the , provides compulsory schooling from ages 6 to 18, encompassing maternelle (kindergarten), primaire (primary), and secondaire (secondary) levels, with a mix of public and subsidized private institutions under the Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles. Public schools are managed by the or Wallonie-Bruxelles Enseignement (WBE), while private schools are predominantly Catholic and affiliated with the Secrétariat général de l'Enseignement Catholique (SeGEC). Enrollment across primary and secondary levels in Huy totals approximately 4,000 students as of , reflecting the town's population of around 20,000 and serving both local residents and nearby communities in the Huy-Waremme . Key public institutions include the Athénée Royal de Huy, a offering maternelle through secondaire with a focus on general academics and preparation for higher studies. Its primaire section enrolls about 142 students, while the secondaire section serves roughly 1,000 pupils, contributing to a total of approximately 2,000 across all levels. Another prominent public option is the Ecole Maternelle et Primaire St-Louis, a subsidized Catholic fundamental emphasizing foundational skills in a nurturing environment for young learners from ages 2.5 to 12. Additional public primary schools, such as the Ecole communale des Bons-Enfants and Ecole communale d’Outre-Meuse, provide localized access to early , often integrating community-based projects. Private and Catholic schools in Huy offer alternatives with vocational and specialized tracks, including the Institut Technique Don Bosco, which focuses on technical and professional training in fields like industry, , and for secondary students aged 12 to 18. This enrolls around 480 to 500 students, prioritizing hands-on skills aligned with regional manufacturing and service sectors. Other private secondary options, such as the Collège Saint-Quirin and Institut Sainte-Marie, provide general and technical programs, while primary-level Catholic schools like Ecole fondamentale Saint-Quirin complement the system with faith-integrated curricula. Bilingual education options remain limited in Huy's schools, with most instruction conducted in French and Dutch introduced as a from the third primary year in select institutions, but without widespread immersion programs. Recent decisions, such as the discontinuation of linguistic immersion at Ecole communale de Huy-Sud in 2020, have further constrained such offerings. Vocational and technical schools like Institut Technique Don Bosco emphasize STEM () subjects to meet the needs of Wallonia's industrial economy, including training in mechanics, electronics, and construction, supported by broader regional initiatives to promote STEM competencies.

Higher education institutions

Huy hosts the HELMo Huy , part of the Haute École Libre Mosane (HELMo), a higher education institution specializing in teacher training. The , located in the heart of the city near the Grand'Place, offers bachelor's and master's programs in (section 2), preparing students to teach children aged 5 to 12 with an emphasis on digital integration and practical internships in regional schools. It maintains a family-like atmosphere with personalized support, including continuous evaluation, remediation, and distance learning options, fostering a smooth transition from secondary to higher education. Vocational training in Huy is closely linked to the local nuclear industry, particularly the situated within the municipality. The site features dedicated training facilities, including full-scope simulators for operational staff, managed by to ensure safety and technical proficiency. Specialized programs in nuclear safety culture and radioprotection are provided by ECS, mandatory for contractors accessing Tihange and sites. Additionally, the SCK CEN Academy offers advanced vocational courses tailored for professionals, with partnerships involving the to deliver customized university-level training in and related fields. Adult education in Huy emphasizes through communal and provincial initiatives, supporting skill development and integration. The Institut Provincial d'Enseignement et de Formation pour Adultes (IPEFA) Huy-Waremme provides a range of courses in areas such as , operation, and professional qualifications, accessible in evening or daytime formats. The IFAPME Centre Liège-Huy-Verviers offers over 600 modules for adults aged 18 and older, covering business creation, transversal skills, and sector-specific training. For immigrants, organizations like Dora Dores deliver French as a (FLE) courses at multiple levels, from beginner to advanced, alongside integration programs such as "Vivre en Belgique" to facilitate societal participation.

Culture

Folklore and festivals

Huy's folklore is deeply rooted in its religious traditions, particularly the septennial procession known as Les Septennales, which commemorates a attributed to the Virgin Mary in 1656. During a severe that year, local authorities and organized a to bring the statue of Notre-Dame de la Sarte, a , from her sanctuary to the town center, pleading for rain; upon its return to the sanctuary, abundant rainfall ended the crisis, saving the crops from . This event led to the establishment of the tradition, held every seven years on August 15, the Feast of the Assumption, featuring a grand cortège with the , religious relics, and participants in historical attire. The most recent procession occurred in 2019, drawing approximately 20,000 spectators despite inclement weather, while past editions, such as in 2012, attracted between 50,000 and 100,000 attendees; the next is scheduled for 2026. The procession highlights Huy's enduring Catholic heritage, with the statue departing from the Église Notre-Dame de la Sarte and processing through the streets to the of Our Lady and St. Domitian before returning. Accompanied by confraternities, musicians, and floats depicting biblical scenes, it serves as a communal act of thanksgiving and draws participants from across the region, emphasizing themes of and resilience. Complementing this major event, Huy hosts several annual festivals that blend local customs with contemporary celebrations. The Cherry Fair, held the first weekend of , celebrates the region's fruit harvest with cherry-themed foods like tarts and jams, a , live music, and family activities, marking the onset of summer. In April, the Festival d'Art de Huy features street performances, including theater, circus acts, dance, and music, transforming the town's historic center into an open-air stage for international and local artists. October brings the Halloween Detective Party at the Fort de Huy, an interactive event where participants solve mysteries inspired by historical figures like or local enigmas, suitable for families and offering a playful nod to the town's fortified past. Huy's folklore traces its origins to medieval legends surrounding Saint Domitian, the 6th-century of Tongeren credited with evangelizing the area and establishing early Christian sites, including a sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary; these tales of his miracles and generosity form the foundation of local devotional practices. While the core religious processions date to the , many folk elements, such as rituals and customs, saw a modern revival in the late 19th and early 20th centuries amid efforts to preserve Walloon cultural identity during industrialization.

Architectural heritage

The Citadel of Huy, constructed between 1818 and 1823 under Dutch rule on the site of an earlier medieval castle, dominates the skyline above the city and the Meuse River. Originally designed as a formidable fortress by H. Kamerlingh, it functioned as a prison for political detainees throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, including during when it held around 6,000 Belgian prisoners under German occupation. Today, it operates as a and dedicated to the and concentration camp victims, featuring 11 exhibition rooms with artifacts, prisoner testimonies, and recreated cells that illustrate daily life in the facility during the Nazi era. Visitors can access panoramic views of Huy from its ramparts, making it a key tourist draw for its blend of military history and somber reflection. The Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, a prime example of Mosan Gothic architecture erected primarily in the 14th century between 1311 and 1536, stands as one of Huy's most iconic monuments. Its style includes an imposing western tower crowned by Li Rondia, the largest in measuring 9 meters in diameter, which fills the interior with intricate stained-glass light. The church also features a from earlier structures, underscoring its layered history as the fifth iteration of worship sites on the location since the . Nearby, the 15th-century Bassinia Fountain (Li Bassinia), built in 1406 on the , features a circular basin supplemented by four turrets and serves as a symbol of Huy's medieval civic pride, drawing visitors for its enduring ornamental design. Huy's architectural legacy extends to its medieval infrastructure, including remnants of the old town walls that enclose the historic quarter's narrow streets and high rubble fortifications, remnants of defenses dating to the city's 11th-century charter. The Li Pontia, Huy's historic bridge over the first built as a stone structure between 1294 and 1303, once resembled a bustling street lined with houses before repeated destructions; its modern successor, the King Baudouin Bridge, evokes this medieval engineering feat as one of the town's enduring "wonders." These elements contribute to Huy's recognition as a millenary Mosan town, with its built heritage reflecting the region's Romanesque and Gothic influences along the Valley. In popular culture, the steep Mur de Huy—a cobbled incline integrated into the old town's fabric—gained international visibility as a filming location in the 2014 BBC series The Missing, where town exteriors including this landmark captured the drama's tense atmosphere during shoots amid local World Cup fervor. The Citadel has also appeared in various productions, leveraging its imposing silhouette for historical and thriller scenes that highlight Huy's dramatic landscape.

Sports

Cycling events

Huy is renowned in the world of professional cycling primarily due to the Mur de Huy, a steep 1.3-kilometer cobblestone ascent with an average gradient of 9.3% and sections reaching 26%, located on the town's southern outskirts. This climb has been the decisive finish for La Flèche Wallonne, one of cycling's Monuments, since 1984, following its debut inclusion in the race route in 1982. The annual spring classic, held in late April as part of the UCI World Tour, covers approximately 200 kilometers through the Ardennes region and attracts top climbers, with Alejandro Valverde holding the record of five victories on the Mur de Huy. Tadej Pogačar won the 2025 edition, his second victory on the climb. The has also featured prominently in the , serving as the uphill finish for stage 3 of the 2015 edition, where Joaquim Rodríguez outsprinted rivals including to claim victory after 159.5 kilometers from . The has passed through Huy on multiple occasions since 1947, including stage starts in 2001 (to ) and 2006 (to Saint-Quentin), underscoring the town's integration into major Grand Tour routes. Notable past winners of on the climb include , who triumphed three times in 1967, 1970, and 1972, cementing Huy's status as a pivotal site in history. Supporting Huy's cycling prominence is its dedicated infrastructure, including extensive bike paths along the River that form part of the 19 Meuse Cycle Route, facilitating both training and recreational riding. The town hosts various local cycling events for amateurs and enthusiasts, building on a heritage further developed with the construction of a in 1919 that hosted national championships. This network and event tradition enhance accessibility for cyclists of all levels while preserving Huy's role as a Walloon cycling hub.

Other recreational activities

Huy offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, particularly suited to its location along the River and within the scenic Condroz region. trails wind through the Condroz valleys, featuring rolling landscapes, forests, and limestone formations that provide moderate to challenging routes for enthusiasts of all levels. Popular paths, such as those documented on , span over 20 scenic options around Huy, allowing visitors to explore hidden valleys and rural viewpoints. Complementing these, kayaking on the River is a favored water-based pursuit, with calm stretches suitable for beginners; rentals and guided trips are available from local outfitters near Huy, offering paddlers views of riverside cliffs and historic sites. A significant enhancement to outdoor access came in 2024 with the opening of the Téléphérique des Vallées, Belgium's longest urban cable car at 3 kilometers round-trip, connecting the riverbanks to the Sarte plateau. This eco-friendly transport, operational since April 2024, provides panoramic vistas of the Condroz countryside and facilitates easier reaches to elevated spots; attendance remained stable through 2025, boosting and sustainable mobility in the area. Team sports form a vibrant part of Huy's recreational scene, with the Royal Football Club Huy (RFC Huy) serving as a cornerstone since its founding in 1908. The club competes in the Belgian Second Amateur Division ACFF, drawing local support through matches at its home ground and fostering community engagement in the sport. is supported by Union Huy Basket, which fields teams in national leagues like the Belgian 1 Landelijke, emphasizing youth development and competitive play. Tennis enthusiasts can join clubs such as Racket Club Huy or New Huy, which offer courts, lessons, and tournaments amid the town's green spaces. Community facilities further enrich recreational opportunities, including the municipal , which features indoor and outdoor options for and year-round. Public parks like those along the Sarte plateau provide areas for picnics, , and casual play, integrated with broader green initiatives. Annual running events, such as marathons and half-marathons in the Huy vicinity, attract participants to the Condroz terrain, while equestrian activities in the surrounding rural districts—tied to the region's agricultural heritage—include and local shows organized by Walloon federations.

Notable people

  • Renier de Huy (fl. 1105–1130), a renowned 12th-century metalworker and sculptor, attributed with creating the Baptismal Font of St. Bartholomew, a masterpiece of Mosan art.
  • Yvette of Huy (1158–1228), a Christian anchoress and mystic, venerated for her piety and charitable works.
  • Joseph Lebeau (1794–1865), a liberal statesman who served as Prime Minister of Belgium twice, in 1847 and 1852.
  • Julien Lahaut (1884–1950), a communist politician and resistance fighter, assassinated after calling for the abdication of King Leopold III.
  • Edmond Leburton (1915–1997), a socialist politician who served as Prime Minister of Belgium from 1973 to 1974.
  • Anne-Marie Lizin (1949–2015), a prominent politician who was the first woman to preside over the Belgian Senate from 2004 to 2011.
  • André Malherbe (1956–2024), a professional motocross racer and five-time world champion in the 250cc class during the 1970s and 1980s.
  • Frédéric Docquier (born 1967), an economist specializing in international migration and development, professor at UCLouvain.

International relations

Twin towns and partnerships

Huy maintains several twin towns (jumelages) and friendship pacts (pactes d’amitié) with municipalities around the world.

Jumelages

Pactes d’amitié

These partnerships promote cultural, educational, and economic exchanges between the municipalities.

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