Melle - Belgium
Melle, a charming municipality located in the Belgian province of East Flanders, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. With a total population of 11,574 inhabitants as of January 1st, 2018, Melle boasts a moderate population density of 761 residents per square kilometer within its 15.21 km² area.
The municipality's rich history dates back to the Celtic era, with archaeological findings proving that the region was inhabited long before its first written mention in documents in 830. The name "Melle" is derived from either the Celtic word "melina," meaning "brown water," or the prehistoric name "Melinos," which translates to "honey yellow."
Comprising three distinct regions - Melle-Centre, Melle-Vogelhoek, and Gontrode (since the fusion in 1976) - the village of Melle is home to a mix of old-world charm and modern attractions. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate that Melle is the birthplace of Delirium Tremens, a world-renowned beer bottled by the Huyghe brewery and voted "Best beer in the world" at the 1998 World Beer Championships.
Beyond its famous brews, Melle has also produced notable individuals, including Miss Belgium 2000, Joke van de Velde, who grew up and attended high school in the village. The College van de paters Jozefieten, founded in 1837 by canon Constant Van Crombrugghe, is a prestigious institution known throughout the country for its innovative educational programs and famous alumni.
Despite its many charms, Melle faces some challenges. The village scores moderately (B- to C+) across various quality-of-life metrics, including amenities, commute time, health, culture, childcare and education, noise pollution, and NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard). However, these ratings suggest that while Melle may not excel in any particular area, it offers a solid foundation for residents seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Residents of Melle also enjoy some unique cultural experiences. The village gained national fame thanks to the TV show Schalkse Ruiters, which featured host Bart De Pauw playing a comedy character named The Man from Melle. In a delightful example of life imitating art, the city council even decided to name one of its streets Koekoekstraat and paint a door with house number 70 on the wall.
Overall, Melle is an attractive option for those seeking a quiet yet culturally rich lifestyle in Belgium's picturesque East Flanders province.
Melle
Country: Belgium
Population: 11574
Elevation: 16.0 metre
Area: 15.21 square kilometre
Web: https://www.melle.be/