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  • Folklore and Tradition

Organised every 7 years, this march, declared intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO is an absolute must see. The next event will take place on September 29, 2019.

This impressive religious ceremony is given in honour of Saint Feuillen. Over 3,000 persons, dressed in military uniforms inspired by the first and second Napoleonic Empire, will join. Also on the program: canon shots, fifres and drums... Quite possibly the most prestigious march in the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region.

The legend of Saint Feuillen

The tradition started in the 15th century, as a prayer to Saint Feuillen to be protected from war and natural catastrophes or even asking for a weather kind to the cereal crops.

In 1635, after an epidemy of plague, Fosses decided to organise it every 7 years. This is the oldest and most prestigious military march in the Entre-Sambre et Meuse region.

The march

It unrolls onto 3 Sundays, the last Sunday of September being the most important. Over 3,000 soldiers escort the bust and reliquary of Saint Feuillen, paced by drums, fifres and muskets being shot. The procession finishes on the Feu de file, a local tradition: each soldier will shoot once by the statue of Saint Feuillen, in front of the collegiate church.

Origins of the marches

Religious in the start, then influenced by the Napoleonian era, the processions evolved through the 20th century to the actual format. More than 2,000 persons join the tradition, fully dressed in historical costume. More information of the many marches taking place in the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region here.

Practical information

Each march of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region has its tradition and rules. You will find the calendar listing the marches here.

Declared intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO

The marches of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region are listed by UNESCO.

We do our best to keep you informed. It's best, however, to check the latest news with the attraction you are visiting, or operator you have booked an activity with. Read our travel advice.
This information is given for indication purposes only, best to check with the site you hope to visit before heading there - by phone, email, social media or simply by visiting their website.

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