Menen stands as an unyielding guardian on the Leie, a city that guarded the border for centuries and formed the gateway to the famous Wellington Barrier. Here, military strategy, international history, and local resilience intersect. The fortifications still visible today, dating from after the fall of Napoleon, 1815-1830, were once designed to protect the Verenigd Koninkrijk der Nederlanden against French expansion. Today, they tell the story of a city that rises again and again, strengthened and defined by its strategic location. A guide will take you through this fascinating past of our city and introduce you to the Hertog van Wellington, the commissioner for the development of the Wellington Barrier. The walk ends at the Grote Markt. Just in time to enjoy the sunset from the belfry or to chat a bit longer on a terrace.