Located in the Jardin du Mayeur,
the Doudou Museum invites us to discover the rich world of the Ducasse de Mons,
a jewel of world heritage and Mons folklore.
Housed in the former Mont-de-Piété building, built in 1625, the space invites us to discover this exceptional part of Mons heritage,
that is showcased through different angles: historical, anthropological,
scientific, artistic, lay or religious.
The
fact that the Doudou was recognised by UNESCO as one of the Masterpieces
of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005 was by no
means an accident. Every year over Trinity weekend, the people of Mons come
together to pay tribute to Sainte Waudru and witness the legendary battle,
known as Lumeçon, pitting Saint George against the Dragon. It is a really
special time in Mons. Time stands still and the city is filled with an
incredible energy. It is often said that the Ducasse creates the tempo for the town
and its residents. The Doudou in Mons is a sacred event.
The experience is all about interpretation, and we can
(re)experience all the highlights of the event through all sorts of objects.
Seeing behind the scenes of the event, try to understand its popularity and
unifying spirit. The participation of local residents in the battle and the
passing on of the tradition to the next generation. Whether you are a local or
not, whether you are familiar with the festivities or have never taken part, you will experience the same intensity that spark that
fires every year in this crazy festival.
So what is it that drives local residents to get together and
experience this event as one? How has the Doudou been passed down the
centuries? What is behind all the highlights? Why does Saint George fight the
Dragon? Why do we need to create these legendary characters? To understand what
lies behind this exceptional legacy, the Doudou Museum looks at all the
different aspects of the event. All the different facets of Mons’ folklore and
heritage have been analysed with a fine-tooth comb, sometimes from some rather
unusual angles.
Mons’ Doudou is explained through history, anthropology, art,
religion and science. Behind Saint George and the Dragon, visitors are
introduced to all the different symbols. This event, which has been passed down
through the centuries, ultimately asks some really important questions about
our society.
Somewhere between reality and the imaginary, the
Doudou Museum takes us right to the heart of the Ducasse de Mons.
Tuesday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
9 €