Montignies-lez-Lens: a rural village in the heart of the region
Montignies-lez-Lens: a rural village in the heart of the region
Montignies-lez-Lens is a small picturesque village in the commune of Lens, nestled in the countryside. With an area of 1128 hectares, it is located on the road linking Lens to Neufvilles, about 12 km from Soignies and 15 km from Mons and Ath.
The village is crossed by the Dendre River, surrounded by hills and fertile plains. Its altitude varies between 50 meters at the river and 103 meters at Blanc Ronsart, thus offering a pleasant and varied view of the surrounding landscapes.
With around 780 inhabitants (in 2007), Montignies-lez-Lens retains a charming rural character, with restored houses clustered around the village centre, while the surrounding hamlets are more scattered. This hilly terrain, mainly composed of loamy soil, is ideal for agriculture, and particularly suitable for wheat growing and livestock breeding.
A rich and fascinating history
The name Montignies has evolved over the centuries, going from Montinium (1017) to Montignies-lez-Lens in 1845. This village has a fascinating history, dating back to the Roman period when it was part of the charcoal forest of the Bavay region. Montignies was a place of important agricultural production, particularly of wheat, as well as livestock, particularly of sheep and pigs, supplied to Rome.
In the Middle Ages, Montignies was an economic and administrative centre. The village even housed a feudal castle, some of the remains of which still exist today. This historic site is also marked by the influence of the Cambron-Casteau Abbey and the crusaders who took part in the famous expeditions to the Holy Land.
Heritage and remarkable places
The Saint-Martin church, probably dating from the Roman era, is a key place in the commune. Its bell tower, built in 1791, houses two bells dating from 1820 and 1948. Inside, there are many architectural elements from the 16th century, as well as a statue of Saint-Martin, the patron saint of the parish.
Montignies also has several chapels, including the famous chapel of the Notre-Dame de Lourdes grotto, which attracts pilgrims every August 15. The Moulin du Parc, built in 1640 by monks, bears witness to the local industrial history, while the Château Cogels, dating from 1760, is a fine example of historic architecture still inhabited today.