Legends of the Ardennes Massif, a Cross-Border Intangible Geo-cultural Heritage (Belgium, Luxemburg, France, Germany)

Myths and legends related to geological phenomena or stunning landscapes are common in the cross-border Ardennes Massif. They represent an important intangible geo-cultural heritage. Those legends add an extra dimension to the holistic experience of geoheritage in the western part of the Variscan Rhenish massif, which is also world famous for its International Union of Geological Sciences-acknowledged stratigraphical reference sections of the Palaeozoic era. Of particular interest are the many legends devoted to the devil, aiming to explain occurrences of unusual forms, sizes or numbers of rocks, boulders or particular rock formations in the landscape. The Ardennes is also known for its legends about emblematic historical characters, such as Emperor Charlemagne and Saint Remacle, commonly used to elucidate the strange or suspect occurrences of the above geological items. The medieval legends of the Four Sons of Aymon and that of their magical bay horse Bayard are strongly rooted in the Ardennes tradition and the local geology: many outstanding rock formations or geomorphological features have been named after these characters. Moreover, both gave their name to official geological formations. Other legends, such as the one dealing with the Giant's Tomb or those related to the activities of dwarf-like creatures, fairies and witches, rather represent folktales involving direct or indirect links with geological curiosities (particular rock formations, caves, springs, etc.). A real cross-border network of geotouristic legend roads could certainly enhance public awareness and stimulate decision-makers to valorize the great potential of this less-known intangible geological-cultural heritage.

Automated summary

Myths and legends related to geological phenomena or stunning landscapes in the Ardennes Massif represent an important intangible geo-cultural heritage, adding an extra dimension to the holistic experience of geoheritage. Legends about characters like Emperor Charlemagne and Saint Remacle, as well as mythical figures like the Four Sons of Aymon, are rooted in the local geology and have even given their names to official geological formations. Other folktales involving creatures like dwarfs and witches have indirect links with geological curiosities, presenting a rich potential for geotourism development.