Lier is pronounced "Lee-air" in English. However, locals pronounce it as "Lee-yer." Lier is a small town located between Mechelen and Antwerp. It has a population of 33,272 and covers an area of 49.70 square kilometers, resulting in a population density of 669 people per square kilometer. This makes it comparable to a district within the city of Antwerp. Lier is a peaceful, unpretentious, and verdant town.

Lier: A Small Town with a Big Reputation

While Lier may be a small town, it boasts a reputation that extends far beyond its borders. Renowned for its beer production, Lier is home to the Sint Gummarus brewery, known for its eponymous beer. The town is also affectionately referred to as the "cave" of beer, a testament to its deep-rooted brewing tradition.

Beyond its association with beer, Lier is also home to St. Gummarus, a revered figure in the region's history. Additionally, the town is the headquarters of Van Hool, a leading manufacturer of buses and coaches. This diverse range of industries and attractions underscores Lier's significance as a vibrant and multifaceted community.

The comparison to a "white elephant" in the original text suggests that Lier's achievements are remarkable and unexpected, given its relatively small size. This analogy highlights the town's ability to punch above its weight and establish itself as a center of brewing, history, and industry.

We arrived here around nine o'clock in the morning on Sunday. The town was eerily quiet, possibly due to the early hour and the light drizzle. Undeterred, we pressed on, believing that even the cloudiest skies eventually give way to sunshine. As most shops were still closed, we parked our car in the town's car park, located behind the main church. Normally, parking would require payment based on the duration of our stay. However, being a Sunday, we were able to park for free.

After parking the car, we walked straight to the church, passing through a maze of narrow alleys lined with long red bricks. Turning right and left, and feeling the cold air against our skin, we enjoyed the leisurely walk. Soon, the church appeared before us. For such a small town, the size of the church was extraordinary, showcasing the immense power of faith that cannot be measured.

As we continued our walk around the cathedral, we came across a bustling commercial district that serves as the city's economic hub. The area was teeming with shops and businesses, rivaling those found in larger cities, offering a haven for avid shoppers. We strolled past the various stores, our sights set on exploring the city's main square. The atmosphere of the city was further enhanced by the presence of a moat that encircled it. Along the banks of the moat stood charming houses, their red brick construction adding to the picturesque scene. The crystal-clear water of the moat reflected the beauty of the houses, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.

Some buildings are adorned with beautiful trees that grow up the facade, creating a natural aesthetic.

Following the canal, we arrived at the heart of the city, a small square called Chatusaras. Unlike the bustling squares of larger cities, this one was tranquil and adorned with a unique clock tower, a symbol of the city's identity.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit this place. You'll be enchanted for sure.

Roti ran away to travel.

#leeur#belgium 🇧🇪#ancient city#belgium
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