"#The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde: An Enduring Symbol of Strength and Courage"

Welcome to the human heritage tracker! I am excited to share this incredible culture and traditions. From its ancient origins to modern-day celebrations, the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde has been a source of pride and joy for the people of Dendermonde for centuries. Read on to discover more about this unique and fascinating event.

Hello, I'm a professional archaeologist passionate about uncovering the past. My career has taken me worldwide, exploring ancient sites and discovering forgotten civilizations. My goal is to find the secrets of the past, to help us learn more about our history and how it has shaped our present. I'm committed to research, teaching, and public outreach and am passionate about making archaeology and human heritage available to all.

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I. Introduction

Welcome to my blog post about the famous Ros Beiaard Dendermonde. The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is one of Belgium's oldest and most iconic pageants. It has been celebrated for centuries and is a unique and exciting part of Belgian culture. This post will explore this particular event's history, significance, and traditions. We will also examine how the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde has evolved over the years and how it is celebrated today. So, join me as we dive into the beautiful world of the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde!

A. What is the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde

The Ros Beiaar is a horseback procession and festival in Dendermonde, Belgium. It is a centuries-old tradition celebrated since 1572 and is held in honor of the city's patron saint, Saint Julian. The procession is led by the Ros Beiaard, a horse-drawn cart carrying a historic wooden sculpture of Saint Julian. The Ros Beiaard rises 4.85 meters above the ground to its tallest point. The horse is 5.8 meters tall when the ornaments on top are included. The Ros is 5.2 m long from nose to tail and 2 m wide. The Ros Beiaard's head measures 120 cm in length and 50 cm in width and is made of oak wood. Without the brothers on top, the horse weighs 800 kg. Twelve carriers, or "Pijnders," can fit in the timber frame's three spaces. The procession is accompanied by a parade of traditional horseback riders, musicians, and other participants dressed in medieval costumes. Following the march, there is a festival that includes food, drink, and entertainment for the whole family. The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is a unique opportunity to experience a centuries-old tradition and glimpse Belgian culture and history. It is a beautiful event that will surely be remembered for years. The Ros Beiaard is on UNESCO's list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity under the "Processional giants and dragons in Belgium and France".

A group of bearers known as the "Pijnders" carry the Ros Beiaard of Dendermonde through the town. According to folklore, the horse is ridden by four young brothers from Dendermonde (de Vier Heemskinderen), who are fully armored. During the parade, the Ros Beiaard legend is brought to life.

The choice of the four "Heemskinderen" is challenging. The requirements are strict:

• It has to be four consecutive brothers, without a girl in between.

• They all have to be born in Dendermonde.

• The parents and grandparents have to be held in Dendermonde.

• They must be between 7 and 21 years old on the procession day.

• They have to live in Dendermonde or one of its suburbs.

The Legend of the Dragon

Here I would like to mention the legend of the dragon. The Legend of the Dragon of the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is an ancient legend that dates back to the Middle Ages in Flanders. The story tells of a dragon that would terrorize the local people of Dendermonde, leaving a trail of destruction and death in its wake. The brave people of Dendermonde, knowing they could not defeat the dragon alone, called upon a hero to help them. The hero, a knight known as the Ros Beiaard, rode out to face the dragon, and, with the help of a magical sword, he was able to slay the beast.

The Impact of the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde on the Local Culture

The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is a centuries-old tradition that has had a lasting impact on the local culture of Dendermonde, Belgium. Every ten years, locals and visitors witness the pageant, where a knight on horseback rides around the town and interacts with the people. This pageantry has become a core part of the local culture and has served as a symbol of pride and identity for the people of Dendermonde. The event also benefits the region economically, as visitors come from far and wide to watch the spectacle. With its long history and deep cultural significance, the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is an integral part of the culture of Dendermonde.

Why the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is Worth Visiting

The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is a must-see for any traveler looking to explore the history of Belgium. Located in the city of Dendermonde, it is one of the oldest processions in the world. The procession is held every Ten years and is a unique spectacle worth visiting. The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is an incredible event that leaves visitors with a lasting impression of Belgian culture. Visitors can also take advantage of the many sights and attractions of Dendermonde, making this a must-visit destination.

Conclusion

The Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is a fantastic event that has been going on for centuries and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. It's a unique and delightful tradition that allows locals to come together and celebrate their community and culture. Its colorful and vibrant parade is a great way to kick off the summer festivities. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Ros Beiaard Dendermonde is a must-see event that can't be missed. So be sure to check it out the next time you're in the area!