Arsenal of Namur

The Namur Arsenal is a 100-meter-long building located on the banks of the Sambre. It was built at the end of the 17th century.

It was in 1692 that Louis XIV decided to make Namur, a city strategically located at the confluence of the Meuse and the Sambre, the most important stronghold of the countries. He entrusts the task to Vauban . Together with the citadel and the series of secondary fortresses surrounding the city, the Arsenal was part of the great strategist's work to strengthen the city's military defenses.

It was built from 1692 to 1693 . The very thick walls were pierced with narrow windows. The solid oak frame had to support the enormous weight of the ammunition. Heavy equipment was stored on the ground floor and ammunition on the upper floor. A bridge from this level gave direct access to the Sambre, facilitating the supply of ammunition transported by boat .

The Arsenal was used by the military until the end of World War II . The building was subsequently acquired by the faculties of Notre-Dame de la Paix and was restored and redeveloped under the direction of architect Roger Bastin (1977-1982).

It serves as the university restaurant of the University of Namur and can accommodate hundreds of people. Upstairs are several large conference and congress rooms.

It is classified as an important heritage site in Wallonia.

Willem Vandenameele