Discovering Mons: A Family Adventure

Our family has always been drawn to the charm of European cities, and Mons, located in the south of Belgium, was no exception. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Mons was the European Capital of Culture in 2015, and it promised a unique blend of historical intrigue and modern-day allure. When I stumbled upon the Mons City Game during our travel planning, I knew it was the perfect way to explore the city with my wife and two children.

The game offered a self-guided tour through an app, allowing us to explore Mons at our own pace. As a museum curator, I was particularly interested in how the game would blend education with entertainment, making it an ideal activity for our family. The app provided clear instructions and a detailed city map with a GPS function, which was a lifesaver for navigating the charming yet winding streets of Mons. The countdown feature, which displayed the number of meters to our next destination, added an element of excitement for the kids, turning our walk into a treasure hunt.

A Journey Through Time

Our adventure began at the Grand Place, the heart of Mons, with its beautifully paved square and elegant facades. The app guided us through the history of this iconic location, transporting us back to times past. The kids were fascinated by the stories of the square’s significance and the architectural details that adorned the buildings. As we moved from one point of interest to another, the app provided intriguing facts and anecdotes, keeping us all engaged.

One of the highlights was the François Duesberg Museum, a treasure trove of multicultural artifacts. The museum’s high didactic value resonated with my professional interests, and it was a joy to see my children captivated by the exhibits. The app’s interactive questions and search assignments encouraged them to delve deeper into the displays, making the experience both educational and fun.

Embracing Mons’ Cultural Heritage

Our journey continued to the Mons Memorial Museum, where we were invited to reflect on the complex realities of war. The museum’s exhibits were thought-provoking, and the app’s insights helped us appreciate the depth of the stories being told. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding history, a lesson I always strive to impart to my children.

We also visited the Collegiale Sainte-Waudru, a stunning example of Brabant Gothic architecture. The app’s detailed descriptions of the church’s history and its dedication to St. Waltrude, the patron saint of Mons, enriched our visit. The kids were particularly taken with the Belfry of Mons, the only baroque belfry in Belgium, which stood proudly in the garden of Hainaut’s counts.

As our day came to a close, we found ourselves at the Doudou’s Museum, where we learned about the ritual Ducasse and its cultural significance. The app’s engaging narrative made the history come alive, and it was a fitting end to our exploration of Mons.

In conclusion, the Mons City Game was a delightful way to discover the city. It seamlessly blended education with entertainment, making it a perfect family activity. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Mons, whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun way to explore a new city.