Berlare

Berlare is a municipality located in the Belgian province of East Flanders. The municipality comprises the towns of Berlare proper, Overmere and Uitbergen, as well as the village Donk, Belare. The Donkmeer, a large lake and a regional tourist attraction, is located centrally in the municipality. In 2021, Berlare had a total population of 15,222.

History
It was where the 1798 rebellion against French rule, known as the "Peasants' War" began in 1798.

Places of interest

 * The church of Saint Martin and a 17th-century pillory in the center of Berlare proper. The Castle of Berlare, also in the town centre, was opened to the public in 2012.
 * The Bareldonk Chapel, built in the 14th century and expanded in 1774 in Rococo style, is situated in Donk. There is a Way of the Cross and calvary with sculptures by Aloïs De Beule next to the chapel.
 * The Donkmeer is a lake, about 86 ha in size, that came into existence through the harvesting of peat.
 * Recreation area Nieuwdonk.
 * Forested areas with trails include Berlare Broek and the Gratiebossen.
 * Riekend Rustpunt is a very small museum about the historic river transport of manure from the city to the countryside.

Notable people

 * Tjörven De Brul, soccer player
 * Fred De Bruyne, cyclist and TV commentator
 * Karel De Gucht, politician
 * Paul Cammermans, film director and actor
 * Yves Van Der Straeten, soccer player
 * Preben Van Hecke, cyclist
 * Frank Van Laecke, theater, opera, musical and TV director
 * Cecile Bombeek, serial killer

Sports

 * BrigandZe Rugby Compagnie (2008)