The impasses in the Hors-Château district

These are narrow and exciting pedestrian paths that are sometimes accessed through an arched passageway (Walloon: an arvô) at the front of a building. Six of these eight Impasses end on the Rue Hors-Château. They are lined by old, often well-restored, small proletarian houses, but also by more bourgeois buildings, restaurants and sometimes a small high-hanging Marian chapel.

They are an oasis of peace and quiet in the immediate vicinity of the bustling historic center of Liège. In the past, these Impasses were mainly inhabited by craftsmen who practiced textile professions, such as weavers and tailors. Many houses, many dating from the 17th century, are included in the list of Wallonia's cultural heritage.

Every first Saturday of October for more than 25 years, the Nocturne des Coteaux de la Citadelle has taken place in the historic districts of Liège. Streets, courtyards, stairs, terraces, paths and impasses bear witness to the ancient landscape of Liège. During the evening, the locations are subtly lit with candles and every year around forty thousand visitors come to enjoy the fairytale atmosphere.

In addition to the illuminated Montagne de Bueren, the Impasse des Ursulines and the others are especially a fairytale. Via a narrower staircase, you can climb the Coteaux de la Citadelle to the Terrasses des Minimes with their unique view of Liège. If you want to experience it, be there on time, it is always very busy.