Halle (Eurotoday): Geert De Poorter has restored the 19th-century Villa Servais in Halle, Belgium, transforming it into a bed and breakfast and concert hall. Inspired by its history, he is building a garden seating area using blue limestone from the demolished local station, enhancing cultural events while honoring cellist François Servais’s legacy.
The villa of the legendary 19th-century cellist François Servais in Halle, Belgium, has been restored and is now owned by Geert De Poorter. It serves as a bed and breakfast, concert hall, and exhibition space, honoring Servais’s legacy while providing a venue for cultural events. De Poorter is also adding seating in the villa’s garden, creating a new space for outdoor concerts and events during the summer months.
How is Geert De Poorter reviving François Servais’s legacy at Villa Servais?
The idea for the new seating area in the garden of the villa is inspired by its historical significance. When François Servais lived there, the garden overlooked the local station, which was demolished in 1993. Geert De Poorter managed to get about 20 pallets of blue limestone from the original station building. These historic stones are being repurposed to create the seating tribune, preserving a piece of the past while enhancing the cultural atmosphere of the villa’s garden. This project blends history with modern use, creating a unique space where music and heritage come together.
It has been said that building the grandstand costs money, so Geert will sell champagne with a label of the Halle musician Servais and his favorite instrument, the cello. He also asked the community to help restore the villa. Many older people in Halle miss their old station. Now, the stones from that 19th-century building are being reused, making the grandstand special. Geert said the stones were in a waste container for years, then moved to Edingen, and now they are in the villa’s garden.
Comments
One response to “Villa Servais: Geert De Poorter Brings 19th-Century Cellist’s Legacy Back to Life in Halle”
-
Reviving a 19th-century cellist’s legacy with a side of recycled limestone? Talk about a sustainable twist! Next, they’ll be serving tea from the last century and calling it avant-garde. 😏🍵
Last News
EU "Buy European" Plan Tests Single Market Rules
Brussels plans a major procurement shift as industry applauds—and lawyers highlight trade and competition risks
The EU is adopting a “Buy European” strategy for public spending to direct taxpayer funds towards EU-made strategic technologies. Proponents believe it will support jobs and supply chains; critics argue it may increase costs, provoke trade disputes, and challenge the single market̵
Exclusive Survey: In Marseille, Vassal Falls Behind, Payan and Allisio Lead
Sudan: SAF Drones Strike Civilians Despite Protection Claims
At least fifty-seven people were killed in just two days, according to United Nations human rights officials, with many of the victims being children. The types of targets—a market, a displa
What to Anticipate in Reeves’ Spring Statement
Sam and Anne examine the sectors demanding additional funding—particularly student loans and defense—even though Rachel Reeves claims this isn’t the time for increased expenditure.
Meanwhile, in the Lords, is the assisted dying bill nearing its
Four Years Later: LWF Sustains Hope in Ukraine
Reflecting on the four-year mark of the conflict in Ukraine, Bishop Pavlo Shvarts, head of the German Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ukraine, remarked, “It is a tragic day for our people and our history.” He expressed gratitude, saying, “We sincerely thank all of you who continue to pray for us and to keep our church in your heart.” Bishop Shvarts urged continued support for the church’s efforts
Inside the EU Ambassadors’ Crisis Bunker
Coreper meetings — regular assemblies of EU ambassadors — are increasing in frequency, showcasing how the bloc is evolving. Previously seen mainly as preparatory, these meetings now play a crucial role in shaping discussions before leaders meet.
The energy narrative progresses. The European Commission addresses Hungary’s alerts about disrupti
EU Eases Supply-Chain Due Diligence Rules
On Tuesday, 2
Merz Advocates for Adjusting Germany’s ‘Unhealthy’ Trade Relations with China
Responding to these concerns, Merz called for fair competition, emphasizing the need for transparency, reliability, and adherence to established
Updates on Temples in Brazil, the Philippines, Texas, and South Dakota
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced that the groundbreaking services for the Teresina Brazil Temple will occur on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Elder Ciro Schmeil, First Counselor in the Brazil Area Presidency, will preside at the event.
As previously announced, the Teresina Brazil Temple will be built on a 3.60-acre site locate
Canada’s AI Minister Blames OpenAI for ‘Failure’ After Mass Shooting
OpenAI’s head of policy, Chan Park, alongside six other company representatives, met with members of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Cabinet on Tuesday in Ottawa — a meet
Leave a Reply