Genappe (; , ; ) is a city and municipality of Wallonia located in the Belgian province of Walloon Brabant. Just a 28 km away from Brussels, Genappe is easily accessible by train, bus, or car, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's energetic pace. Its proximity to the capital provides a serene escape, yet with convenient access to urban amenities.
Rich in history that spans several centuries, Genappe beckons those keen on scenic strolls, venerable architecture, and a tranquil ambiance, embodying a charming blend of historical allure and modern accessibility.
Demographics
As of 2023, the tranquil municipality of Genappe boasted a population of 14,266 residents. Spanning a total area of 89.57km2 , the region enjoys a population density of 15,26 inhabitants per km2.
Localities
Nestled within the bounds of Genappe are several quaint villages, each bearing its unique charm and historical narrative:
Genappe: The namesake village, where the echoes of the past blend with the gentle rhythm of daily life. Vieux-Genappe: A glimpse into bygone eras, Vieux-Genappe is a journey through time with its historic edifices. Bousval: A village where the canopy of nature meets the legacy of tradition.
Villages of Genappe
Baisy-Thy: A village that cradles the simplicity of rural living, offering a peaceful retreat. Ways: A hamlet where every path tells a story, leading towards either verdant fields or historic dwellings. Houtain-le-Val: With its rustic charm, Houtain-le-Val is a portrait of pastoral beauty. Loupoigne: A village where the past and present engage in a gentle dialogue amidst scenic landscapes. Glabais: A realm where tradition holds a gentle conversation with the present amidst a backdrop of natural splendor.
Each village within Genappe is a chapter in a tale that melds the serenity of nature with the tapestry of history, offering residents and visitors alike a serene escape amidst a historically rich setting.
History
Although his birthplace was probably Boulogne-sur-Mer, one 13th-century chronicler cites Baisy (now Baisy-Thy in Genappe), as the birthplace of Godfrey of Bouillon, the best-known leader of the First Crusade (1096-1099).
Postal history
The Genappe post-office opened before 1830. It used a postal code 48 with bars (before 1864), and 145 with points before 1870. BOUSVAL opened on 8 April 1880.
Postal codes in 1969 (before the merger of municipalities in 1977): - 1470 Genappe - 1471 Loupoigne - 1472 Vieux-Genappe - 1473 Glabais - 1474 Ways - 1475 Baisy-Thy - 1476 Houtain-le-Val - 1488 Bousval.