The village of Beuzet

Beuzet and Ferooz: a rich, ancient heritage

Beuzet is the only one of our villages to have left traces of prehistory. Just 150 metres from the source of the Bois Henry stream, Palaeolithic and Mesolithic flints have been found, along with a variety of cutting tools and an arrowhead dating from the Neolithic period.

Roman artefacts have also been found in the surrounding area, including ceramics, bronzes and iron objects. A tumulus once stood near the bank of the Ourchet.

In the Middle Ages, Beuzet came under the authority of the Count of Namur, with the local lord exercising only the right of low justice. Like neighboring villages, Beuzet experienced the passage of troops, often synonymous with looting. In 1578, the village was crossed by the routed Gueux and their Spanish pursuers.

Spiritually, the inhabitants depended either on the parish of Bossière or, for the most part, on Saint-Denis, which meant long journeys. From 1803, Beuzet depended solely on Bossière. A local parish, attached to the Gembloux deanery, was created in 1842 - the date inscribed on the chronogram above the church door.

Paye à fait", near the main road between Lonzée and Beuzet, owes its name to an old estaminet: it could be translated as "the house doesn't give credit".

The hamlet of Ferooz

The hamlet of Ferooz is located in the commune of Beuzet, but is part of the parish of Bossière. Near the Sainte-Anne chapel, a Merovingian tomb has been discovered.

Ferooz belonged to the Abbey of Gembloux, but the Count of Namur exercised the same prerogatives as at Beuzet. A local lord also held extensive rights, creating complex border situations between Gembloux and the county of Namur, leading to disputes over seigneury boundaries, royalties and rights.

In the Middle Ages, Ferooz castle stood on the site of today's castle farm. The medieval tower is still visible, while the rest of the castle was demolished in 1840. The current neo-classical château was restored in 1917-1918.

Source: Cercle Royal 'Art et Histoire' de Gembloux.