CAROLUS V

VISITBRUSSELS, the Ommegang and the Coudenberg are joining forces to devise a tourism program that will give a boost to Brussels’ reputation and national and international visibility in the field of culture and heritage around the theme of Carolus V and his age. The aim is to build on the cooperation around this theme from one year to the next to cater to the demands of history buffs and heritage lovers.

What’s the program?

From May 23 to September 1st: Ommegang Exhibition

The exhibition, organised by the Centre Albert Marinus and the Coudenberg, displays all the facets of this renowned event. The public can admire special pieces belonging to museums and private collections, while works created especially for the occasion by photographer and artist Phil Van Duynen shed a contemporary light on the exhibition. The exhibition’s very fitting location– the archaeological remains of the former Palace of Brussels – ties the event together and gives it very special appeal.

Sunday June 9 from 10am to 6pm: Coudenberg Palace celebrates Carolus V and the Ommegang

An activity-filled family day out awaits you in the Coudenberg Palace, which was home to Carolus V. The programme includes an introduction to Renaissance dancing, a meeting with the Ommegang characters, guided tours, games dating from Breughel’s time, creation of heraldry, a costume workshop, etc.

June 20 from 7p.m to 10 p.m: A CAPPELLA CONCERT – Historical Nocturne

A night of a cappella, introducing you to both religious and non-religious songs from the Renaissance era, performed by the Royal Protestant Choir of Brussels in the old passages below the former Palace of Brussels.

July 2-4, 2013: The Ommegang procession

The Ommegang (“walk around” in old Flemish) is Brussels’ oldest historical evocation. It dates back to the 14th century and was originally a procession in honour of Our Lady of the Sablon. It took on another dimension when, on 2 June 1549, the authorities of the city of Brussels turned it into a festival in honor of the visit of Charles V and of his son the Infante Philippe, a festival that drew the participation of the guilds, the crafts, the notables, the nobility and clergy.

Why Carolus V?

Many consider this emperor as a precursor of European unity. But let’s not exaggerate: he waged war three times on François I, the King of France, and his relationship with Henry VIII, the King of England, was no less stormy. But we can be sure of one thing at least, it was under the reign of François I, Henry VIII and Carolus V that Medieval Europe stepped into the Modern Age and, of these three sovereigns, Carolus V wielded most power.

Why Brussels?

The era of Carolus V changed the destiny of the city for ever. During his 40-year reign, between 1515 and 1555, he spent most of his time in Brussels, making the city a power hub for his vast empire “where the sun never sets”. It was also in the great ceremonial hall of his palace in Brussels that he chose to abdicate in favour of his son, Philippe II.

For more information: www.carolusfestival.be