Berlare () is a municipality located in the Belgian province of East Flanders. The municipality comprises the towns of Berlare proper, Overmere and , as well as the village . The Donkmeer, a large lake and a regional tourist attraction, is located centrally in the municipality. In 2021, Berlare had a total population of 15,222.

History

It was where the 1798 rebellion against French rule, known as the "Peasants' War" began in 1798.

Places of interest

  • The church of Saint Martin and a 17th-century pillory in the center of Berlare proper. The Castle of Berlare, also in the town centre, was opened to the public in 2012.
  • The Bareldonk Chapel, built in the 14th century and expanded in 1774 in Rococo style, is situated in Donk. There is a Way of the Cross and calvary with sculptures by next to the chapel.
  • The Donkmeer is a lake, about 86 ha in size, that came into existence through the harvesting of peat.
  • Recreation area Nieuwdonk.
  • Forested areas with trails include Berlare Broek and the Gratiebossen.
  • Riekend Rustpunt is a very small museum about the historic river transport of manure from the city to the countryside.

<gallery>

File:Berlare - Sint-Martinuskerk 1.jpg|Saint Martin's in Berlare

File:Bareldonk kapel 2011 07 24 00 02702.jpg|The Bareldonk Chapel in the village Donk

File:Kasteel van Berlare westgevel.jpg|The Castle of Berlare

File:Huurbootjes2.JPG|The Donkmeer is a regional tourist attraction

</gallery>

Notable people

  • Tjörven De Brul, soccer player
  • Fred De Bruyne, cyclist and TV commentator
  • Karel De Gucht, politician
  • Paul Cammermans, film director and actor
  • Yves Van Der Straeten, soccer player
  • Preben Van Hecke, cyclist
  • , theater, opera, musical and TV director
  • Cecile Bombeek, serial killer

Sports

Berlare has hosted the Triathlon Donkmeer for over forty years

  • BrigandZe Rugby Compagnie (2008)

References