Battle of Waterloo: Major commemoration announced for 210th anniversary

For the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, the Braine L’Alleud domain is organising a large-scale reenactment of the event on 28 and 29 June.

Over the two days, some 2,000 military reenactors, 100 horses and 25 cannons will bring the battle to life at different locations of the sprawling 20-hectare domain in Walloon Brabant.

French presenter Stéphane Bern is to narrate the immersive events. "I am very happy to come to the Domaine of the Battle of Waterloo," said the host, who is well known for presenting  historic- and royal-themed shows.

"I will try to convey a faithful account of the events that took place there by mixing anecdotes and emotion," promised Bern.

The reconstitutions are part of a major programme of activities to be staged at the famous Lion’s Mound, nearby Hougoumont Farm and Napoleon’s last HQ in Genappe.

In addition to re-living the bloody skirmishes that re-wrote European history, visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the period. A lively civilian village will be populated by craftsman such as blacksmiths, potters and clog makers, while historic bivouacs will be occupied by French and Allied soldiers.

It was on 18 June 1815 that the Battle of Waterloo was fought between Napoleon's French troops and the British and allies, led by the Duke of Wellington.

The two-day battle brought to an end 23 years of conflict in Europe. Belgium was then part of the French Empire and Waterloo was a strategic location for an army of European allies determined to prevent the French commander Napoleon reaching the capital.

This conflict, which left nearly 9,000 dead and 22,000 wounded, led to Napoleon's decisive defeat, before his abdication four days later.

The rolling hills of this rural community south of the town of Waterloo have since become a memorial site and an international tourist destination.

Tickets are now on sale for the anniversary events at bataillewaterloo.be.

Photos: ©Domain of the Battle of Waterloo