The Batte

In Walloon, the term "bate" refers to a dyke made of stakes. In Liège, along the Meuse and the Ourthe, various bates have been developed, either to improve the roadway along the rivers or to protect land from flooding. This area has always been called "So l’ bate," meaning "on the dyke" or "on the quay." The official name given to it in the 19th century, Quai de la batte, thus appears redundant since it should be translated as "Quay of the quay." It can be proven that the term was no longer used in the 19th century except as a place name. As early as the 16th century, the location was conducive to trade. All kinds of markets were held there before it finally became the official site of the Sunday market. Today, the market at la Batte is one of the oldest and largest markets in Belgium. In the past, there were stallholders of all types, as well as popular singers and charlatans selling their wares. Finches competitions were still held there at the beginning of the 20th century. The cries of animals mingled with the street cries of the merchants. Today, even though many types of businesses have left la Batte, it still maintains a great diversity and a very special atmosphere.

-Built heritage
-Historical site

Fédération du Tourisme de la province de Liège