Meet the unrivalled symbol of Dendermonde, the pride of every inhabitant: the Ros Beiaard!
This legendary horse, which only makes its appearance once every ten years in the city of Dendermonde, is surrounded by countless traditions. For this reason, it was recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The highlight of the procession is the so-called fire battle of the Ros Beiaard on the Grote Markt. The horse, carrying the Four Sons of Aymon on its back and borne by twelve sturdy carriers, dances and rears for minutes on end to the rousing tones of the Ros Beiaard song. Each time it tries to break free, it is stopped by a platoon of gunpowder shooters. But eventually the Ros Beiaard triumphs and leaves the Grote Markt, on its way to its resting place for the next ten years.
