Meyboom
Oldest tradition in Brussels, Belgium / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Meyboom plantation (or Meiboom in Dutch, "May tree" – a corruption of the Dutch tree of joy) is the oldest tradition in Brussels, Belgium, attested since 1308. It is held every year on 9 August, the eve of St Lawrence's Day, and consists mainly in planting a beech at the intersection of the Rue des Sables/Zandstraat and the Rue du Marais/Broekstraat in the City of Brussels' Marais–Jacqmain District. It is accompanied by processions and various folk activities during the day.[1]
Meyboom | |
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Status | Active |
Frequency | Annual |
Location(s) |
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Country | Belgium |
Inaugurated | c. 1308 |
Most recent | August 9, 2023 (2023-08-09) |
Next event | August 9, 2024 (2024-08-09) |
Website | Official website |
Processional giants and dragons in Belgium and France | |
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Country | Belgium |
Reference | 00153 |
Region | Europe and North America |
Inscription history | |
Inscription | 2008 (3rd session) |
List | Representative |
The celebration is reminiscent of Brussels' long-standing (folkloric) feud with Leuven, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Following a friendly incident in 1974 in which the Meyboom was stolen and brought to Leuven, both cities have claimed to be planting the "real" Meyboom.[2] Since 2008, it is recognised as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.[3]