Sint-Truiden’s Elf Latsjanen is damaged

Sint-Truiden (Eurotoday) – The “Elf Latsjanen” lamppost in Sint-Truiden, a 1982 carnival symbol with 11 lights, was damaged during carnival. Two lamps broke due to a collision. Gert Stas prioritizes repairs and warns trucks near Groenmarkt.

The “Elf Latsjanen,” a special lamppost in Sint-Truiden, was damaged during the carnival. The lamppost is very important to the people of Sint-Truiden. The damage occurred due to a collision. Mieke Claes, who works for the city and oversees the carnival, stated that it was an accident.

She expressed regret over the damage but reassured that the lights are still functioning. She emphasized that the “Elf Latsjanen” is more than just a lamppost; it symbolizes the carnival spirit in Sint-Truiden. It reminds residents of past celebrations and continues to be a cherished part of the city’s traditions. The city is determined to preserve the lamppost for future generations.

Are trucks in Sint-Truiden a threat to Groenmarkt’s safety?

In Sint-Truiden, concerns are growing over large trucks driving near the fountains on the Groenmarkt, a designated pedestrian zone. Gert Stas, who is temporarily leading the city while the mayor is away, has observed unauthorized truck traffic in the area, even when no events are taking place.

He warned that these trucks pose a safety risk to pedestrians and could damage historic structures, including the recently affected “Elf Latsjanen” lamppost. The city is urging businesses to instruct delivery trucks to use designated loading and unloading zones and adhere to traffic regulations.

We have noticed that trucks are regularly driving in the area of the fountains, while this is not the intention, not even during events or festivities,

adds Gert Stas.

The city of Sint-Truiden is working to repair the two damaged lamps on the “Elf Latsjanen” monument. Gert Stas emphasized that restoring the monument is a top priority, as it holds significant cultural and historical value for the city’s carnival traditions.

He highlighted that the monument, which has stood since 1982, symbolizes Sint-Truiden’s strong connection to carnival celebrations. The city remains committed to maintaining the landmark and ensuring it continues to shine for future festivities.

Gert Stas states,

In the meantime, we will get to work on having the 11 latsjanes repaired, so that they can soon shine again on the edge of the Groenmarkt.

The “Elf Latsjanen” has been a defining feature of the Groenmarkt since 1982. Officials reiterated that the lamppost blank”>represents the city’s deep-rooted carnival traditions. Each year, the carnival season officially begins on November 11th with the illumination of the lamppost.

During the recent carnival celebrations, two of the lamppost's lights were broken. Officials stated that the exact cause remains unclear, but carnival enthusiasts are disappointed that such an important symbol sustained damage. Many residents are saddened that a treasured part of their city's heritage was affected during the festivities.