Timeless Liege: Cathedrals, Courtyards & the Famous 400 Steps

Start at the St. Paul's Cathedral. Built in the 10th century, the construction of the Gothic church didn’t finish until six centuries later. It owns many remarkable works by major Belgian artists, including its 16th-century stained glass windows and the magnificent Reclining Christ dating from 1696 by Jean Del Cour. Also, visitors can get immersed in the tranquility and serenity of the temple in the pleasant garden enclosed by the adjoining cloister.

Next, walk by the Palace of the Prince-Bishops, a historic building situated on Saint-Lambert Square. The former residence of Prince-Bishops now hosts law courts and houses the provincial headquarters. Despite its imposing Italian Renaissance façade, the palace bears an evident Gothic influence. Interestingly enough, its series of courtyards are surrounded by plenty of columns richly decorated with extremely peculiar patterns.

The next step of the tour is another lovely government building, the Town Hall. It captivates passers-by with its joyful vibrant exterior made of brick and limestone. The building overlooks the monument of Perron, the symbol of Liège's urban freedoms.

Then, stroll along En Neuvice, the street of Liege's craftsmen. The oldest pedestrian thoroughfare in Liege managed to retain part of its medieval look with rows of delightful shops of chocolate, cheese, leather goods, or tea rooms and small cafés.

Stop by the Curtius Museum, a stunning sight by the Maas River. It was built in the 16th century for Jean de Corte, known as Curtius, a rich arms and gunpowder dealer in the city. The landmark is a listed building in Liege's exceptional heritage because of its instinctive brick-red façade adorned with white-lined windows. The red building stands in harmony with another unique-looking building nearby.

Take a few steps to the colorful structure, the Church of Saint Bartholomew, whose main shade is white combined with red lines running along outside corners in contrast to the red museum. The lovely temple boasts a characteristic Rheno-Mosan architectural style and groups of intriguing statues in its front yard.

The last step of the tour is a mind-blowing 400-step stone staircase, Montagne de Bueren. The most iconic construction of the city was named after Vincent de Buren, who fought to protect Liege against Duke Burgundy and built in memory of 600 other soldiers who sadly died in the battle. The stairs are steep, and the journey isn’t easy, but after a hard climb, you will be rewarded with a picture-postcard vista of the city surrounded by its splendid natural landscapes.