Oud-Rekem is a village in the Lanaken municipality of the Limburg province of Belgium. The village is considered one of the most authentic villages of Belgium. Since 1994, it is protected as a monument.

History

Oud-Rekem was first mentioned in 1140 as Radekeim. The village was first a heerlijkheid. In 1356, it became a barony, and was elevated to county in 1623. During the 16th, 17th and 18th century, the town was located in a heavily contested area. Oud-Rekem was plundered, and had to station troops on multiple occasions. In 1602, the first walls were erected around the town. Between 1625 and 1630, a second layer of defence was erected. In 1638, a third wall was built in between the first and second. Even though the walls were removed between 1825 and 1836, traces are still visible. In 1795 or 96, Oud-Rekem became part of Rekem, and in 1977, the municipality was merged into Lanaken. In 1994, the old centre was protected as a monument. Oud-Rekem won the election for most beautiful village of Flanders in 2008.

Sights

The Aspremont-Lynden Castle is located in the centre. The original castle dated from the Carolingian era. A larger castle was built in 1350 and existed until 1507. In 1597, the current castle was built by Count Herman d'Aspremont-Lynden. In 1792, the castle was confiscated by the French who demolished parts of the building. In 1921, the castle became a psychiatric hospital. The castle is surrounded by a large garden. The Oude Weerd is a nearby nature reserve which consists of grasslands, hedges, and pools. It is home to badgers and beavers.