I have just arrived from a short trip with my cousin Ane and my uncle Jesús from the region of Wallonia, that unknown but no less interesting region located in the south-east of Belgium, in the heart of Europe. Part of my family lives in this area and that is why I have been lucky to be able to enjoy it and visit it on many occasions.
The history of this city and coal are closely linked, so much so that the Liège region claims the priority of the discovery of coal on the European continent, where still and despite the mining industry, which is almost completely disappeared, the gloomy and decadent color of the city is reflected in the gray color of the mansions of the old city.
Despite its leaden, degrading color and noisy traffic, Liège captivates. It is a lively, dynamic, fiery city that does not sleep and exudes a lot of joy due to the friendliness, warmth and welcoming temperament of its inhabitants. In addition, the smells mix and you can feel them in every corner, whether sweet or salty, from the famous “fries” to the thick and fluffy chocolates or waffles covered in melted chocolate or cream, a true delight for any palate.
The great River Meuse, its small secret corners, the romantic cobblestone roads, the excellent museum offering and its cosmopolitan atmosphere make you feel the positive energy from the city.
And once the street route is over, what better than to sit down to dine on some surprising Moules or all kinds of typical Belgian dishes (croquettes, meatballs a la liegeoise) at a good price with the typical Belgian frites at the Concordia Restaurant (www.au- concordia.be) in Liège, the oldest restaurant in the city located near the legendary Guillemins train station, a majestic, modern and ground-breaking work carried out by the architect Santiago Calatrava, and so frequented by locals.
The interior of the restaurant is decorated in a classic but cozy way, very 80s that at one point during the evening, Commissioner Maigret, sitting next to me, transports me back in time, dressed in his impeccable suit, eternal hat and pipe, the protagonist of the books. great Belgian writer George Simenon, already recognized worldwide as a master and no one doubts that he is one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.
Do you dare to visit this burning city?
