Geographical center of Europe of 15

Geographical center of Europe of 15 is a monument in a forest near Oignies-en-Thiérache, in the municipality of Viroinval, in Belgium's Namur province. It marks the point that served as the geographical center of the European Union while it had fifteen member states, from 1995 to 2004. It makes an unusual walking destination: a work of art tucked into a former quarry, well away from the busy tourist trails.

What is this place?

In 1995, when the Union counted fifteen members, its geometric center was calculated to fall in the Viroinval area. Locals chose to mark the spot with more than a simple post. When the EU expanded in 2004 the center shifted east, and the monument became a reminder of an earlier chapter of European integration.

What does the monument look like?

The focal point is a glass structure called the "Cathedral of Light", created by Belgian stained-glass artist Bernard Tirtiaux. It stands at the heart of a granite star. Each ray stands for one country, and its length reflects the date that country joined the Union: the earlier the accession, the closer its marker sits to the center. Fifteen low columns bearing the names of the member states of the time surround the glass piece.

Where exactly is it?

The monument occupies a forest clearing at a spot called Trou du Diable ("Devil's Hole"), an old slate quarry. The coordinates are roughly 50.008° N, 4.667° E. The area belongs to the Thiérache region and the Viroin valley in the Ardennes, close to the Nismes forest.

How do you get there?

Most visitors arrive on foot. Two hikes are commonly described: a longer route of about 15 km and a shorter variant of around 9 km. The walk runs through woodland, so bring sturdy shoes and water.

Frequently asked questions

Is this still the center of Europe? No. It marks the center of the European Union as it stood from 1995 to 2004. Later enlargements moved the geographic center eastward.

What do the star's rays represent? Each ray is one country, with its length tied to the date of that country's accession.

Is there an entrance fee? We found no information about fees; the site sits in open forest. Check with the Viroinval tourist office for current details before you go.

Who is the trip for? Hikers, fans of contemporary art and geographic curiosities, and anyone exploring the Ardennes and the Viroin valley.