The Woluwe

The hydronym 'Woluwe' would find its origin in the Germanic words 'wele' or 'woele' meaning 'source' or 'spring' and 'euw' or 'eawe' meaning 'water'.

Taking its sources in the Soignes forest, from the confluence of three streams (the Zwanewijdebeek, the Vuylbeek, and the Karregatbeek), the Woluwe flows northwards for 21 km, in a wide valley where it has given its name to three localities. In Brussels, it flows for 10 km, mostly above ground, with tributaries feeding it with quality water and a route marked by numerous parks, nature reserves, and ponds, which together form an important landmark for migratory birds. At the exit of the Boitsfort pond, the Woluwe begins its underground journey for several hundred meters. After about twenty kilometers, the river donates its waters to the Senne, the main watercourse of Brussels. The wastewater of the inhabitants of this populated valley is also collected and, since 2007, treated before being discharged into the river.

Coördinatie Zenne-Coordination Senne