Template:Infobox Belgium municipality Merchtem ({{#invoke:IPA|main}}) is a municipality located in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant. The municipality comprises the villages of Brussegem and Hamme, the hamlets of Ossel and Peizegem, and Merchtem proper. On July 9, 2009, Merchtem had a total population of 15,298.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The total area is 36.72 km2 which gives a population density of 416 inhabitants per km2.
FolkloreEdit
Merchtem is known for 'de steltenlopers', people walking on stilts (up to several meters above ground). Langevelde, a part of the municipality, was frequently flooded after heavy rain. In order to reach the centre, people were using sticks to walk. After an internal struggle, the group split up in two parts, 'stichting Langevelde' and 'stichting Jan Vaderhasselt'.
Language controversyEdit
On August 28, 2006 mayor Eddie de Block introduced a ban on speaking French in the town's schools. Mayor de Block said that the measure did not violate human rights and that it would help integration. A previous ban on signs in languages different from Dutch in the town's markets had been overturned by Flemish Interior Minister Marino Keulen.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Places of interestEdit
- Parochiekerk Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Kerkstraat Merchtem Belgium.jpg
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw church
- Merchtemsteltenlopers.jpg
Steltenlopers
ReferencesEdit
External linksEdit
Template:Geographic location Template:Municipalities in Flemish Brabant Template:Authority control