Towering over Liège with its dizzying silhouette, the Montagne de Bueren stands out asone of the most extraordinary staircases in the world. With its 374 gravity-defying steps, this stone colossus hides a fascinating history, ranging from 19th-century military marches to heroic legends. But beyond its defensive past, this Liège landmark has become the favorite playground for sports enthusiasts and those seeking panoramic views. From the origins of its construction to electrifying events like the BueRun, discover why this climb is a must-do. Between historical heritage and spectacular views over the rooftops of the “Fiery City,” the adventure begins at the foot of the slope.
Bueren Mountain: the gateway to the Fiery City
With its 374 steps and a dizzying 30% incline, the Montagne de Bueren seems to defy urban logic. Yet its completion in 1883 was driven by an unyielding military imperative: to connect the citadel barracks directly to the heart of Liège. At the time, controlling the heights meant controlling the city, and this staircase served as a strategic passage in the event of an invasion. Even more astonishing, this architectural giant allowed soldiers to reach their posts without passing through the notorious Rue Pierreuse, whose temptations distracted men from their duty.
While the staircase is relatively “young” compared toLiège’s thousand-year history, its name has its roots in the blood and resistance of the 15th century. It pays tribute to Vincent de Bueren, who led the famous resistance of the Six Hundred of Franchimont. Today, although they never actually took this exact route, the staircase keeps their memory of courage alive, transforming a piece of architecture into a symbol of Liège’s pride.
The dizzying ascent: when the effort enhances the panoramic view
Today, climbing Montagne de Bueren has become a rite of passage, a challenge people take on for the sheer pleasure of saying, “I did it.” While the climb is arduous, rest stops equipped with benches allow you to catch your breath while watching the houses recede into the distance. As you ascend, the sensation of floating above the rooftops sets in. Once at the summit, the reward is complete: a spectacular panorama of the green hills of the Coteaux de la Citadelle and the ancient bell towers.
But for some, a single climb isn’t enough. The staircase has become the setting for the BueRun, an 8.7-km urban mini-trail featuring three consecutive ascents of the stone colossus. After the exertion, the atmosphere shifts to a festive street party: food, outdoor music, and the crowning of the King and Queen of Bueren. This is where the heart of the Cité Ardente beats: an authentic, vertical, and deeply vibrant city.
