Via Belgica is the name given in the twentieth century to a 400-kilometer-long ancient Roman road. The Via Belgica ran from Boulogne-sur-Mer, passing through places such as Arras, Bavay, Tongeren, Heerlen, and Maastricht, all the way to Jülich and Cologne. Within today’s borders, the Via Belgica crossed into Dutch Limburg at Maastricht, continuing its route through Meerssen, Valkenburg, and Voerendaal, before crossing into Germany near Rimburg via Heerlen and Landgraaf.
The road was an important part of a vast and complex network of (water)ways that stretched to the farthest corners of the Roman Empire. In Northwestern Europe, it played a key role in local and interregional economic development, strategic military defense and the governance of the newly established provinces. At the junctions of major roads and rivers the Romans set up guard posts or small settlements emerged, some of which grew into larger towns such as Heerlen and Maastricht.
Via Belgica introduces you to a South Limburg you’ve never seen before. Follow the road and uncover the region’s rich Roman heritage. Put on your walking shoes and walk in the footsteps of the Romans. Along the way, take in the stunning vistas of the landscape preserved just as the Romans left it for us. Watch Roman villas rise from empty fields on your phone and listen to stories that bring the past to life.
The Romans found their way through South Limburg along the Via Belgica. Now it’s your turn.
New start from 2024 to 2027
Starting in 2024 the partners will begin a new project period which will run from 2024 to 2027. During this period they will prioritize the following mission and vision.
Mission
A Roman road, 400 km long, from Boulogne-sur-Mer to Cologne. Via Belgica crosses breathtaking landscapes where Roman traders, soldiers and travelers once met. All searching for their way. Archaeological sites and their stories extend deep into the landscape today.
Even now, Via Belgica challenges participants to get involved. To seek their identity. To find their way. To share the Roman stories. Via Belgica aims for the boundlessness of the Roman Empire where ancient and contemporary stories intersect. Participation, research, and co-creation are key to bringing Roman heritage to life through an extensive tourism offer.
Vision 2024-2027
Via Belgica aims to further optimize its branding to position the product on the map across the broader Euregio. The existing offering will be further developed by focusing on archaeological research, building partnerships, participation and entrepreneurship.
By 2027, an attractive heritage tourism project, driven by science and tailored to families and the 55+ demographic, will be established. This will be achieved through investment in the experiential value of landscape routes and a fixed annual program in collaboration with the Friends of Via Belgica.
