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My friend Dominique was born in a very historical place, in Placenoit which is a village in Walloon Brabant, near Waterloo. The village was a key strategic point during the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 as it was the main focal point of the Prussians' flank attack on Napoleon's army. Taken and retaken several times by the French and the Prussians, it was the scene of fierce fighting and a terribly bloody battle took place in this today so peaceful area.
One day after having lunch together, she took me to show me the place of her childhood and the house she grew up. It's a very beautiful countryside to show you in our world. I had never been in this village, although I live in Waterloo since 36 years !
The St Catherine church in Plancenoit dates from 1857. The white stones of the old church were used to built the new one. The old church had been severely damaged during the battle in 1815 and had to be rebuilt.
The Church built on a hill overlooks the main place
with cafés and houses
The old houses look still the same and almost untouched
front and
back side
This was the house Dominique grew up
Her school way wasn't an easy one and hasn't changed ! In winter it was nice to go down there with a sleigh. I was quiet breathless when we finally arrived on the top of the hill !
Pieces of the property have been sold and I saw this modern house with two pinguins in the garden ! Tastes are debatable !
But the surroundings are unchanged
Some of the families she knows are still living here
a new kindergarten had been created in this old farmhouse
others are still working farmhouses
This was the one she used to play with the children
and her old school house is still standing, although it's written "Ecole des filles" (School for girls) today the school is mixed and there are also boys.
She showed me the window she had once climbed out, because she was fed up to be locked in probably because she had done something.
and a final view on this old historical village.
Plan of the battle and its history
It's unbelievable that so many men lost their lives in this beautiful place.
