Green Waterke - Mechelen

The Groen Waterke is one of the many idyllic spots in Mechelen.

The Vlietje gets its name from the water surface, which is covered with floating aquatic plants called duckweed. It is actually a remnant of the Melaan Vliet, which was not covered or filled in here. Enjoy the idyllic view that takes you back to the tranquility of bygone times. By the way, you are in the immediate vicinity of Sint-Truiden Abbey and Tongerlo Abbey.

Platforms were often built into the side walls of buildings near the water. They are the toilets of the past. They are called Secrets , an odd name considering how one looked. One day the superior of the monastery sends an angry letter to the town hall. He complains about the young men who sail in boats under his secrets and shoot the nuns in the buttocks with club whistles ! He's lucky: his complaint is heard and soon there are far fewer boats in 't Groen Waterke.

Willem Vandenameele