Pjeirefretters

Vilvoordeners have an ambiguous relationship with the horse: on the one hand they proudly call themselves Pjeirefretters, on the other they cherish the horse they love to eat. Two statues in town recall the Brabant draught horse. One of Vilvoorde's most famous residents. Jean-Luc Dehaene, even identified himself with the farm horse as a symbol of hard worker.
This walk follows a trail through Vilvoorde, passing by places linked to the theme of horses.
Where does the nickname Pjeirefretters come from? Why is the city known for its restaurants with horse meat? Why are there so many sculptures of horses in Vilvoorde? And what is the historical link between the industrial city and horsepower? During the walk, these questions will be answered through stories, anecdotes and accompanied by a city guide.

📏 4 km