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THE Spanish Netherlands, or the Catholick Provinces, commonly called by the general Name of Flan∣ders, (the Principal of these Provinces) are bounded on the East, with Germany; on the West, or rather North-West, with the German Ocean, which parts 'em from England; on the North, with Holland, or the Vnited Provinces; and on the South and South-West, with France.
The whole is of a kind of a Trian∣gular From; being in length from the most Eastern parts of Luxemburg, to the most Western parts of Artois, about 192 Miles; and in breadth, from the most North parts of Brabant, to the most South parts of Luxemburg, about 155 Miles; the whole Circumference being scarce 600 Miles: containing, according to Sellers Account, 7197000 of Acres.
The Principal Rivers in these Pro∣vinces, are, 1. Maes, which (besides its course in France) passes through Namur, Liege and Gelderland, wash∣ing the Towns of Charlemont, Dinant, Namur, Liege, Maestricht, Ruremond, Venlo, Grave and Dort, below which it falls into the Sea. 2. Scheld, or Escaut, passing through Cambray, Hai∣nault and Flanders; washing the Towns of Cambray, Valenciennes, Tournay; Ghent, and Antwerp, a little below which it falls into the Sea. 3. Lys, passing through Artois and Flanders; and wash∣ing the Towns of Air and Courtray, and at Ghent falls into the River Scheld. Those of less Note shall be spoken of afterwards.
This is but a small spot of Land, but exceeding populous, full of excel∣lent Towns and Villages, and most plentifully endowed with all things necessary either for Pleasure or Profit. So very rich, that at once the King of Spain's Revenues from thence (when he had all) was greater than any Prince in Christendom, the King of France excepted; but at present the charge of keeping is much greater than the Revenues. The Strength of these parts are very great, and were it not for the vast increase of the French Power, and the decay of the Spanish, it would be thought much greater: But for a long time the Spaniards have not been able to keep those they have still, without great help from others.
The Traffick in these parts have been always very great; but now no∣thing so much as formerly, by reason of the prodigious increase of the Vni∣ted Provinces in these late years. It chiefly consists of several sorts of Manufactures, as rich Tapestries, fine Camlets, Serges, coloured Says, Mock-Velvets, great Quantities of fine Lin∣nen, Damasks, Cambricks, Taffaties,
and strip'd Stuffs for Beds, which sell well in many Countries; all sorts of Ribbons, Bastard Sattins, and many other things of this Nature, made at the Cities of Mons, Gaunt, Brusselles, Ypres, Lille, Bruges, Valenciennes, &c.
The Inhabitants of these parts con∣sist of Flemmings, Walloons, Spaniards, with some intermixture (more espe∣cially at present) of French, Dutch, and English. The Religion among them may be said to be various, accor∣ding to their several Nations; but howsoever that of the Roman Church is only publickly allowed. The Pro∣testants (which are of no small Num∣ber in many of the chief Cities) are ra∣ther suffered out of Policy. The Arch∣bishopricks and Bishopricks are all Ro∣man Catholick.
The Languages most generally used in these parts are the Walloon and Flemmish; the Walloon is a corrupt French, spoken in Artois, Hainault, Namur, Luxemburg, French Flanders, some of Brabant, and the Bishoprick of Liege. The Flemmish or Low-Dutch, is a Dialect of the German, spoken in the Marquisate, Mechlin, the rest of Brabant, Flanders, and the Bi∣shoprick
of Liege. The Spanish is al∣so much in use among the King of Spain's Subjects, and the French a∣mong the better sort. English and Latin is here well understood by ma∣ny.
In these Provinces are two Archbi∣shopricks, viz. Cambray and Mechlin; and eleven Bishopricks, viz. Antwerp, Boisleduc, Bruges, Ghent, Ruremond and Ypres, under Mechlin; Namur, Arras, St. Omers, and Tournay, under Cambray; and Liege under Cologne in Germany. Here are also 155 Cities or Walled Towns, (besides those in Cambray and part of Gelderland) and 6867 Villa∣ges, besides the Castles, Forts, and Noble Mens Houses, which are al∣most innumerable. The chief City of the whole is Antwerp; but Brussels be∣ing the Seat of the Spanish Governor, and the Heart of the Country, I shall reckon the distances from that. The chief City of the French is Mons; of the Hollanders, is Boisleduc, or Mae∣stricht; and of the Bishop of Liege, Liege.
The Provinces are in Number 10; viz. 1. Flanders, 2. Artois, 3. Hainault, 4. Namur, 5. Brabant, 6. Marquisate of
the Empire, 7. Mechlin, 8. Bishoprick of Liege, 9. Limburg, and 10. Luxem∣burg; to these may be added that part of Gelderland that is under the Spani∣ards, and the Dutchy of Cambray. Of these, Flanders borders on the Sea; Bra∣bant, on the Vnited Provinces; (as like∣wise does Flanders;) Artois and Hai∣nault, on France, (with the Dutchy of Cambray) Bishoprick of Liege, Lim∣burg, and part of Gelderland, on Ger∣many; Luxemburg, on France and Ger∣many: Namur, the Marquisate and Mechlin are Midland Provinces.
The Government of these Provin∣ces should be all under the Spaniards; but at present they have only Namur, the Marquisate, nigh three quarters of Brabant, nigh half of Limburg and Flanders, and a quarter of Hainault, with some of Gelderland. The French have Artois, Luxemburg, Cambray, three quarters of Hainault, a third part of Flanders, and a quarter of the Bishop∣rick of Liege. The Hollanders have above half of Limburg, above a quarter of Brabant, a sixth part of Flanders, and a small part of the Bishoprick of Liege. The Bishop of Liege has nigh three quarters of that Provice.
FLanders has on the East, Brabant, on the West or North-west, the Ocean; on the North, Zealand; and on the South and South-East, Artois and Hainault. It is in length about 90 miles, and in breadth 60.
It is a very fine and rich Country, and accounted the Noblest Earldom in all Christendom, and is in most pla∣ces exceeding fertile, and withal so populous, that the whole may be rec∣koned but as one City. It has in it 35 Cities or Walled Towns, and 1178 Villages. The chief City of the whole is Ghent.
The chief Rivers are 1. Scheld, which here washes Tournay, Oudenard, Ghent, and Antwerp, and soon after falls into the Sea. 2. Lys, which here washes Armentiers, and Courtray, and falls into the Scheld at Ghent. 3. Dender, which washes Geersberg, Nienove, and Aelst, falls into the Scheld at Dender∣mond. 4. Scharp, which washes Doway, and St. Amand, and falls into the Scheld.
The Towns in this Province are thus situated, viz. 1. Hulst, the most N. Western Town of Note nigh Brabant. 2. Axel, five miles West of Hu••st. 3. Sas van Ghent, six miles nigh West of Axel. 4. Ysendick, nine miles N. West of the Sas. 5. Ardenburg, seven miles S. West of Ysendick. 6. Sluys, four miles nigh West of Ardenburg. These are all under the Hollanders. 7. Bruges, 10 miles South West of Sluys. 8. Ostend, on the Sea, 11 miles West of Bruges. 9. Nieuport or New∣port, by the Sea nine miles S. West of Ostend. 10. Dixmude, nine miles S. East of Nieuport. 11. Ghent, the Me∣tropolis, 34 miles East of Dixmude, (on the Scheld) and 28 N. West of Brussels. 12. Dendermond, 12 miles East of Ghent (on the Scheld.) 13. Aelst or Alost, six miles South of Dendermond, nigh Brabant. 14. Nienove, six miles South of Aelst. 15. Geersberg, four miles S. West of Nienove. 16. Oude∣nard, 11 miles West of Geersberg, (on the Scheld.) 17. Courtray or Cortryck, 17 miles West of Oudenard. These are all under the Spaniards. 18. Ypres, 15 miles West of Courtray. 19. Dun∣kirk, 23 miles nigh West of Ypres on
the Sea. 20. Graveling, 10 miles S. West of Dunkirk, nigh France and the Sea. 21. Wynoxberg, 12 miles East of Graveling. 22. Cassel, 10 miles S. East of Wynoxberg. 23. Armentiers, 18 miles nigh East of Cassel (on the Leye.) 24. Lille or Rissell, six miles nigh East of Armentiers. 25. Tournay or Dornick, 14 miles East of Lille (on the Scheld) 26. St. Amand, 11 miles South of Tournay (on the Scharp.) 27. Doway, 15 miles S. West of St. Amand (on the Scharp.) These are all under the French.
GHent, or Gaunt, the chief City of this Province, commodiously seated on the Banks of the Rivers Scheld and Leye, which run through it, and di∣vide it into 26 Islands which are joy∣ned together with 98 Bridges. It is accounted one of the largest Cities in the Low-Countrys, being seven miles in Compass within the Walls, but now rather decays than encreases. It is well Walled and Trenched about; and the private Buildings are for the most part
fair and stately, and the Streets hand∣some and clean kept. It has seven Churches, and 55 Religious Houses. The Cathedral is a most stately Stru∣cture; and the Tower Bellefort is a∣bove 400 Steps high. The Castle, which is the Princes Palace, contains three hundred Chambers. The Cit∣tadel consists of four Bastions, which are but little, and look on one side upon the City; and on the other to∣wards the Fields; and tho' this For∣tress be of a regular form, yet it is not so convenient as many others in these parts. The Trade of this place consists (besides Corn) in Cloths, Stuffs and Silks, of which there are so great quantity made, that among the Fifty Companies of Tradesmen, those relating to Commodities of this nature make one third.
BRuges or Brugge, the Second City in Flanders, so called from the multitude of Bridges. It is situated in a large Plain, about Eight miles from Sea, and the Walls on the inside
are somewhat above four miles in Compass; the City being of a round form, and well Walled and Fortified with Works of Earth and deep Ditches. The River Rey runs through it with a muddy and heavy stream. The City it self is exceeding neat, tolerably popu∣lous, and very well built, many of the Houses being four or five, and some six Stories high. It is one of the most considerable places that the Spaniards have left; and notwith∣standing it comes vastly short of its former Trade, it may well challenge place among the Cities of the Second rate in Europe. The Market place has a Commodious and Pleasant Situation, being the Centre where six of the principal Streets, running from as ma∣ny of the chief Gates of the City, are terminated.
Here are Seven Parish Churches, (that of St. Johns is Cathedral) 60 Religious Houses, and three Colleges of Canons, and also a fine College for the Jesuites. The Chief Trade of this place is now in Spanish-Wool. It stands 24 miles nigh West of Ghent.
DOway or Dovay, is a remarkable place under the French, on the Borders of Artois and Hainault. It is situated upon the River Scharpe, and is of considerable Strength, and has a fine Magazine very well furnished. It is likewise considerable for its extent, ancient Buildings, September Fair, and Traffick upon the Scheld; but more especially for being an University, and a Seminary for the English Roman Catholicks. The Fort stands about a Cannon-shot below the Town upon the Scharpe, and judged by its situa∣tion among Marshes, by means of its Sluces, whereby it can drown all the Country about, to be impregnable. The chief Trade of this Place consists in fine Woolen-Camlets, sent into many Parts. It stands 56 miles almost South of Ghent, and 34 West of Mons.
The next places here discribed, are, the Five Ports, viz. Dunkirk, Ostend, Nieuport, Sluys, and Graveling.
DVnkirk, or Duynskerke, is a very considerable Place of the French, seated on the Sea, and judged to be about the bigness of Cambridge. Be∣yond the Old Town, there have been, since it came into the Hands of the French, great Works drawn, which augment the Town above one half. There is a New Trench cut for a Mile together through the Splinter-Sands, which will, upon the Head of the Tide, receive 150 Vessels of 70 Guns apiece; and on the West-side of this Harbour is raised a vast pil'd and plank'd Work, to intercept and lodge the Sands. It is a Place of very great Strength, but much added by the late Fortifications, which are very large, and the Bastion towards the North is most stately. It is well built and po∣pulous, and particularly commended for the Neatness and Regularity of the Streets. Here is an English Nun∣nery, and Franciscans have a Cloyster for Persons of both Sexes. At the Mouth of the Haven stands a strong
Castle, on which are planted 200 Pieces of Cannon. It stands 54 Miles West of Ghent.
OStend stands on the Sea-shore in the midst of a Moorish Ground, and among divers Channels; but is chiefly environed almost on all sides by two of the greatest of them, by which the Sea enters into the Land, and grows so high when at full Tide, that the Town seems rather to be buried, than situated in the Sea. It has been more∣over so exactly and regularly fortifi∣ed, that it is taken to be one of the strongest Towns in the Low-Countries; having also a safe and capacious Har∣bour, (which it is said can never be blocked up) well defended, and deep enough to receive Ships of the great∣est Burden. The Buildings of the Town are not very tall, but they are handsom and uniform; the Streets be∣ing regular, well pav'd, exactly level and strait; this Regularity is to be at∣tributed to its being built altogether. This Town stands 35 Miles almost West of Ghent.
NIeuport, or Newport, between Dun∣kirk and Ostend, a small distance from the Sea-shore, a little River run∣ning on the one side of it, which tho' but a mean Channel, yet where it falls into the Sea, makes a considerable long and secure Haven, especially at high Tides; and yet the same (tho' provided of a good Key) is hardly ca∣pable of Ships of any great Burden. The Town it self is a place of good Strength, having broad and strait Streets; but the Houses are general∣ly but low built, and those for the most part of Timber. It has also a strong Castle. The Inhabitants of this Town maintain themselves chiefly by the Fishing Trade. This Town stands about 40 Miles West of Ghent.
SLuys, or Sluce, stands some distance from the Sea shore, and is not a∣bove one of thier Miles in compass,
nor is all that place thorowly Inha∣bited, though its Situation and Forti∣fication be such as render it one of the strongest Places that belong to the Confederate States in this Province, being much stronger by reason of the Isle Cadsand nigh adjoyning. It was in former Ages an exceeding wealthy Place, enjoying that Trade which af∣terwards removed from hence to Bruges, and from thence to Antwerp, and has still the largest Haven in all Flanders, the same being capable of Five Hundred good Ships. This Town stands 22 Miles North West of Ghent.
GRaveling stands nigh the Sea, upon the Mouth of the River Aa, which parts France from Flanders, and being a Frontier Town, upon the approach of Strangers towards the Gate, notice is given of their numbers by a Toll of a Bell for every Horse. It stands in a low and plashy level, and is en∣viron'd with so many Outworks, and Ditches of Water, (having five strong
Bulwarks, and a Cittadel) that it seems strange that it should be in so short time delivered up to the English and French in the year 1658. As for the Town it self, it is neither large nor well built, and being moreover not many years ago but thinly Inhabited. This Town stands about 64 Miles West of Ghent.
The next Places here described are the six Frontier Towns; the three first of the French, the rest of the Spani∣ards: They are Lille, Ypres, Tournay, Courtray, Oudenard, and Dixmude.
LIlle, l'Isle, or Ryssel; the Chief Town in that part of Flanders which is called Galligant, or Walloon. It is Si∣tuated among Pools, Ponds, and Marshes, but dried up, and firm Land, by the Earl Baldwin de Barbu. It is a great strong and populous Place▪ It was some years ago accounted the third Place of Traffick in the Low-Coun∣tries next Amsterdam and Antwerp: The Invention of laying on Colours with Oyl, making of Worsted Sayes,
and many other Stuffs being imputed to this City. The Inhabitants have of late employed themselves in Wea∣ving of Silks, which has much Inrich'd them; insomuch the French have cal∣led this Place la petit Paris for its Beauty. Here is a good Castle, and the Ruins of an old one called Buck This Town stands 36 Miles South West of Ghent.
YPres, Ypren, or Ipres, stands in a fruitful Plain, upon a River of the same Name. It is very strong, said to be almost impregnably Situated, and has a new Citradel. It is a well built place, though Wooden Fronts take something away from the Beauty of the place; which are Universally so well served with Water convey'd to them in leaden Pipes, that the Foun∣dations are usually said to be of that Metal. Its Market-place is one of the fairest and largest in all these Coun∣tries; and here stands their Hall or Repositary for Wool, which, though old, is nevertheless a handsom piece
of Building. Here are several Con∣vents in this Town, and among the Churches, the Cathedral of St. Martin has the Preheminence. It is very Rich, driving a good Trade (especially in the Annual Lent-Fair) with its Sayes, and half Silks, and the like Commo∣dities. This Town stands 35 Miles nigh South West of Ghent.
TOurnay, or Dornick, is on all sides surrounded with Fruitful and Pleasant Fields, and thorough the midst of it, under divers Bridges, runs the River Schelde, which in this place be∣gins to be Navigable. It is a very strong place, and has a Noble Castle. It is a place of great Note, as well for its Antiquity, as for its being furni∣shed with People, Traffick, and hand∣some Buildings; among which are se∣veral stately Churches and Religious Houses, and also Honoured with an Episcopal See; taken by the French in the year 1667. This Town stands 30 Miles nigh South of Ghent, and 24 North West of Mons.
COurtray, or Cortryck, is Seated upon the River Lys, and comes in the next rank to the Capital Places in these Provinces, and is reckoned one of the ancientest Towns in all these Parts. It is a Place well built, and of great Strength both by Art and Nature, and is reckoned of great Importance, having a strong Cittadel built by the French when it was Subject to them. The Inhabitants of this Ci∣ty are accounted excellent Artists at Diapering of Linnen. This Town stands Twenty six Miles South West of Ghent.
OVdenard is a Frontier Town of the Spaniards, (as was Courtray) Situated upon the River Schelde nigh the Borders of Hainault. It is ac∣counted one of the fairest Towns in these Parts, both for Situation, Traffick, and number of Inhabitants.
It is strengthned by a Castle cal∣led Pamele, which is joyned to the Town by a fair Bridge; but its being commanded by a very high Hill towards the North East, takes away very much from its Strength. This Town stands sixteen Miles South of Ghent.
DIxmude, or Dixmuyde, is another of the Frontier Towns of the Spaniards against the French; Situ∣ated upon the Confluence of the Ri∣ver Ypres, and another Nameless Stream. It is not very large, but is reckoned a place of great Strength and Importance to the Spaniards, though it has been often in the Pos∣session of the French. This Town stands between Ghent and Dunkirk, Thirty four Miles from the former, and Twenty from the latter.
ARtois has on the East, Hainault, Cam∣bray, and part of Flanders; on the West and South, Picardy, in France; and on the North and North-East, Flanders. It is in length about 70 Miles, and in breadth 40.
It is exceeding fruitful in all sorts of Corn, but more particularly of Wheat, which it produces in such a Measure, that this Province serves as a Granary to a great part of Flanders and Brabant. It has in it 12 Cities, or Walled Town, and 754 Villages. Chief City of the whole is Arras.
The chief Rivers are, 1. Scharpe, which here washes Arras, and runs in∣to Flanders nigh Doway. 2. Lys, which here washes Aire and St. Venand, and runs into Flanders. 3. Aa, which here washes▪ Reutly and St. Omars, and runs into Flanders. 4. Canche, washing Hes∣den, and runs into France.
The Towns in this Province are thus situated; viz. 1. Liques, the most Northern place of Note, nigh the Bor∣ders of France. 2. St. Omars, 8 Miles nigh East of Liques, (on the Aa.) 3. Reutly, 12 Miles nigh South-West of St. Omars, (on the Aa.) 4. Dire, or Drien, 12 Miles East of Reutly, (on the Lys.) 5. St. Venant, five Miles East of Dire, (on the Lys) and Bor∣ders of Flanders. 6. Bethune, eight Miles South of Venant. 7. Pernes, se∣ven Miles West of Bethune. 8. Hes∣din, 15 Miles South-West of Pernes, (on the Cauche.) 9. Lens, 25 Miles East of Hesdin. 10. Arras, the Me∣tropolis, nine Miles South of Lens, (on the Scharpe) and 70 Miles South-West of Brussels. 11. Pas, 13 South-West of Arras, on the Borders of France. 12. Bapaume, 15 Miles East of Pas, on the Borders of France. These are all under the French.
Circumference, and well peopled. It consists of two distinct Towns, (for∣merly parted by a Wall, but now de∣molished) called by the Names of La Citte and La Ville, the former in a spe∣cial manner subject to the Bishop, the later to the Secular Prince. Both are very strongly fortified with good Bul∣warks, deep and broad (tho' dry) Ditches. The Streets are broad and fair, adorned with a spacious Market-Place. The Citizens Houses are very commodiously built, having deep and large Rooms under Ground, intend∣ed at first as places of Retreat in time War. Here is a beautiful Cathedral, a very wealthy Abbey, and a strong Castle. The Chief Trade of this Place consists in making of vast quan∣tities of Rich Tapestries, and Arras Hangings, Says, and many such like Commodities.
ST. Omars, or St. Omer, is the second City in this Province, situated up∣on the River Aa, by the Borders of Flanders. It is well Fortified with
Walls, Bastions, Half-Moons, Ditches, Marshes, and Lakes; in the latter are certain little floating Islands, affording good Pasture for Cattle, and shelter for Fish, which in great numbers seek Covert under them in the extremity of Heat and Cold. The Riches of the Inhabitants, the Canal for Com∣merce, called the New Fosse, the Ab∣by of St. Bertin, and more especially the English Seminary of Jesuits, have render'd it a place of publick Note. and of no common Fame throughout the World. It stands 36 Miles North West of Arras.
AIre or Arien, is situated upon the River Lys, and is a very strong Place, being environ'd on three sides by a moorish level, and Fortified with good Ditches, Bastions, Half-Moons, Redoubts, Hornworks, and Counter∣scarps. It can be closely Besieged but on one side, and there it is defended by a strong Forress called Fort St. James, having five Bastions, two Half-Moons, and a deep Trench. This
Place was taken last by the French Anno 1676, and stands 28 Miles North West of Arras.
HEsdin, or Hesdin-fert, situated upon the River Canchee; It was built by Charles the Fifth. in the year 1554, nigh the place where old Hesdin stood, but enjoys a far better Situation, and is now a very regular Hexagon, so well contrived and Fortified, that it is esteemed one of the strongest Holds in all the Countries; yet was it taken by the French in the space of six Weeks. This Town stands nigh the Borders of France, 26 Miles nigh West of Arras.
and the Archbishoprick of Cambray. It is in length about 70 Miles, and in breadth 65.
It aboundeth in most Places with fresh Meadows, and sweet Pastures, good Fruits, and profitable Trees, and especially with great plenty of Corn. It has 24 Cities or Walled Towns, 950 Villages, four Principalities, three Marquisates, and 15 Counts. The chief City is Mons.
Chief Rivers are; 1. Sambre, which here washes Landrechies, Armiers, and Maubeuge, runs into Namur. 2. Scheld, which here washes Bouchain and Va∣lenciennes, runs into Flanders. 3. Hais••e, which washes Binch and Mons, falls into the Scheld nigh Conde. 4. Den∣der, which here washes Leuse, Ath, and Lessines, and runs into Flanders.
The Towns in this Province are thus situated, 1. Lessines, the most Northern Town of Note nigh Flan∣ders, (on the Dender.) 2. Ath, four Miles South of Lessines, (on the Den∣der.) 3. Enghien, ten Miles East of Ath. 4. Halle, nigh Brabant, Eight Miles East of Enghien, (on the Senne.) 5. Braine le Comte, seven Miles nigh South of Halle. 6. Seignes, three Miles
South West of Brain le Comte, (on the Senne.) 7. Roecles, five Miles South of Soignes. 8. Fontane, twelve Miles South East of Roecles: These are all under the Spaniards. 9. Binch, seven Miles West of Fontane. 10. Mons, the Metropolis, eight Miles West of Binch, (on the Haisne and Trulle) and Twenty seven South West of Brussels. 11. Conde, thirteen Miles West of Mons, (on the Scheld.) 12. Valencien∣nes, six Miles nigh South West of Conde, (on the Scheld.) 13. Bouchain, ten Miles South West of Valenciennes, (on the same River.) 14. Quesnoy, fifteen Miles East of Bouchain. 15. Bavay, ten Miles almost North East of Quesnoy. 16. Maubeuge, seven Miles nigh East of Bavay, (on the Sambre.) 17. Beaumont, nine Miles East of Maubeuge. 18. Ameries, fifteen Miles South West of Beaumont, (on the Sam∣bre.) 19. Landrechies, seven Miles South West of Ameries, (on the same River.) 20. Avesnes, seven Miles East of Landrechies. 21. Lyesses, six Miles East of Avesnes. 22. Chimay, ten Miles East of Lyesses. 23. Mari∣enburg, ten Miles nigh East of Chimay. 24. Phillipville, seven Miles North of
Marienhurg: These are all under the French.
MOns, Monts, or Berghen, is the Chief City in this Province, and one of the principal throughout the Low-Countries. It stands upon a higher Ground, but with a gentle As∣cent, except one corner of it, which is very high, upon which lies a spaci∣ous Plain, (a place used for Games and Pastimes) affording a most deli∣cate prospect This place is wonder∣fully strong by its very Situation, the Country round about being easily overflown for a great space by the Waters of the Haisne and Trulle, nigh the confluence of which two Rivers, the City stands, the latter of these two cutting it through on the lower side. It is surrounded by a very good Stone Wall, with a threefold broad Ditch, and is defended by a strong Castle. The Buildings of the Town are both Stately and Beautiful, the Streets being large, and the Market∣place spacious; and scarce any place
is better provided of Conduits, which continually supply the Inhabitants with Water. Here is a famous College of Cannonesses, who have free leave to depart, and Marry when they shall think fit. This is also a place of good Trade, which consists in divers Commodities and Manufactures, especially in Sayes, Grograms, and such like.
VAlenciennes is a French Frontier, the second in this Province; It stands on the River Scheld, (over which are Ten Bridges, upon them stand Stately and Commodious Houses) incompassed and divided by so many interspersed Channels, that the place is rendered exceeding Defensible, by Reason of the great quantity of Water which can soon drown the Country round about. Besides this, it is Fortified strongly with excellent Walls and Rampiers incompassed with extraordinary broad and deep Ditches; and by Reason of the great difference of Situation in several parts
of the City, it cannot well be Be∣sieg'd with less than three Armies at once. Here are several fine Buildings in it, as the great Church of our Lady, the large Convent of the Franciscans, and another for the Dominicans; the Town House with many Building for Publick Use. This Place has the Staple of French Wines; and here is also made fine Linnen Cloth, equalling that of Cambray, with Water-Tabbies, and such like Commodities. This Town stands seventeen Miles almost West of Mons.
MArienburg, Built by Mary Queen of Hungary, Sister to Charles the Fifth, in the year 1542. It is a French Frontier, situated on the Ri∣ver Blanche. It was (besides the Si∣tuation so advantagious) so excellent∣ly well Fortifi'd at first with a very strong Wall, and four good Bul∣warks, that it was looked upon as impregnable, if provided of a suffi∣cent Garison of Couragious Men, the
loss of it (to the incredible preju∣dice of these Countries) being impu∣ted to the base and unworthy Beha∣viour of the Defendents. This Town stands Twenty eight Miles South East of Mons, and (as I take it) is now Dis∣mantled.
PHillipville, is another French Fron∣tier Town, Bordring on Liege, built by Phillip the Second, King of Spain, for a Bulwark against the French, and Honoured with his own Name. It is but a small place, but is a very strong Fortress, strengthned with five Royal Bastions, besides Walls and other good Works fit for Defence. This Town stands about Twenty eight Miles South East of Mons.
NAmur has on the East, the Bishop∣rick of Liege; on the West, Hai∣nault; on the North, Brabant; and on the South, part of Luxemburg, and the Bishoprick of Liege. It is in length about 34 Miles, and in breadth 30.
It is plentifully stored with all Com∣modities, the Hills cloathed with Woods full of Fowl and Venison, and the Vallies full of Corn; rich in Mines and Quarries of Marble of all sorts. It has in it Four Cities or Walled Towns, and 184 Villages. The Chief City is Namur.
The Chief Rivers are, 1. Maes, which runs through the midst of this Province into the Bishoprick of Liege, and washes Charlemont, Dinant, Bovines and Namur. 2. Sambre, which here washes Charleroy, and falls into the M••es at Namur.
The Towns in this Province are thus situated: 1. Charleroy, the most Western Town (on the Sambre) by the Borders of Hainault. 2. Namur, the Metropolis, 17 Miles East of Charleroy, (on the Maes and Sambre) and 30 nigh South-East of Brussels. 3. Bovines or Bovigne, 12 Miles South of Namur, (on the Maes) by the Bor∣ders of Liege. 4. Charlemont, seven Miles South of Bovines, (on the Maes) by the Borders of Liege and Luxem∣burg. In this Province is also that re∣markable Village of Flerus, six Miles North-East of Charleroy, standing on the Borders of Brabant, 22 Miles nigh South of Brussels. These Towns are all under the Spaniards.
and more beautiful. The City is adorned with a fair Market∣place, a Guild-Hall, divers Churches, & a great Number of very good Stone-Buildings. Here is also a stately and strong Castle, standing upon a very high Hill, the Situation of which ren∣ders it very defensible, and much con∣duces to the strength of the Town. Here are several Religious Houses, of which that of the Franciscans is Chief. This City is rich, and inhabited for the most part by Nobility, well train∣ed, and of a Martial Discipline, ha∣ving but few Merchants and Artifi∣cers among them.
CHarleroy is a Frontier Town in this this Province, which was built by the Spaniards in the year 1666. (in Honour of the present King of Spain) seated upon a rising Ground in the ex∣terior and Western Angle, made by the meeting of the Rivers Pieton and Sambre. Soon after it was built it was quitted by the Spaniards; and by the French soon after so fortified, that
it became one of the most considera∣ble Holds in all these Countries, as it is still. It was restored to the Spani∣ards in the year 1679. This Town stands 14 Miles West of Namur, and 21 East of Mons.
CHarlemont is also a Frontier Town of the Spaniards in the Bounds of this Province, which was built in the year 1555. by Charles the Fifth, (from whom it took its Name.) It is very conveniently seated upon a Hill, near the left Bank of the River Maes, (which affords it a good Trade) and is a very strong Fortress, (though but a small Town) and of very exact and regular Fortification. This Town stands 20 Miles South of Namur.
BOvines, or Bovigne, is another Frontier Town, (but whether of the French or Spaniards I am a little uncertain) situated on the West-Bank of the Maes, scarce two Miles from Dinant on the other side of the River. It is but a small Town, and of no ve∣ry great Strenght, but is chiefly con∣siderable for its being a Pass between Namur and Luxemburg, and for That it deserves here to be taken Notice of. It stands 11 Miles South of Namur.
BRabant has on the East the Bishop∣rick of Liege, and part of Gelder∣land; on the West, Zealand (in the Vnited Provinces) and Flanders; on the North, Holland and Gelderland; and the South and South-West, Na∣mur and Hainault. It is in length 90 Miles, and in breadth 72.
The Air is generally wholsom and good; the Soil naturally very fruitful, except some of the Northern parts, which are somewhat sandy and bar∣ren, but those are managed to the best advantage. It has in it 26 Cities or Walled Towns, and 100 Villages. The Chief City (setting aside An∣twerp) is Brussels.
Chief Rivers are, 1. Demer, which washes Diest, Sichen, A••rschot, runs through Mec••lin and falls into the Scheld. 2. Dommel, which washes Eyn∣doven and Boisleduc, and falls into the
Maes, 3. Senne, which here washes Brussels and Vilvorden, falls in the Demer, and so to the Scheld. 4. Aa, which washes Helmont, and falls into the Dommel at Boisleduc. 5. Dyle, washing Lovain. And, 6. Gias, wash∣ing Tienen, both falling into the De∣mer.
The Town in this Province are thus situated. 1. Grave, the most Northern Town (on the Maes) by Gelderland. 2. Helmont, 18 Miles South of Grave, (on the Aa.) 3. Eyn∣doven, nine Miles West of Helmont, (on the Dommel.) 4. Boisleduc, 16 Miles nigh North of Eyndoven, (on the Dommel and Aa.) 5. Breda, 20 Miles West of Boisleduc. 6. Bergen-op-Zome, 18 Mile nigh West of Bre∣da; These are all under the Hollan∣ders. 7. Herentals, 30 Miles South-East of Bergen-op-Zome. 8. Liere, 11 Miles South-West of Herentals. 9. Si∣chen, 14 Miles nigh East of Liere. 10. Diest, three Miles South-East of Sichen. 11. Halen, four Miles South-East of Diest. 12. Leeuwe, six Miles South of Halen. 13. Tienen, seven Miles West of Leeuwe, (on the Gias.) 14. Lovain or Loeven, 10 Miles nigh
West of Tienen, (on the Dyle.) 15. Vil∣vorden, 10 Miles West of Lovain, (on the Senne.) 16. Brussels or Bruxels, the Metropolis, seven Miles South of Vilvorden, (on the Senne.) 17. Niville▪ 12 Miles South of Brussels, nigh Hai∣nault. 18. Gemblours, 15 Miles East of Niville, nigh Namur. 19. Judoigne, 11 Miles North-East of Gemblours. 20. Hannuye, nine Miles East of Ju∣doigne. These are all under the Spa∣niards.
BRussels, or Bruxels, the Chief City of this Province, and the Seat of the Spanish Governour for these Coun∣tries; a very large City, sweetly seated on the River Senne. It is com∣passed with a double and high Wall, and very large Ditches; in the Cir∣cuit thereof were formerly 74 Towers, many of which have been since ruined. It is well built, and has large, hand∣som, and convenient Streets. The King's Palace is a most Magnificent and Stately Building, having Room enough to lodge several Kings at once,
to which belongs many excellent Gar∣dens, Grotto's, Ponds, Waterworks, Walks, &c. The Senate-House is a Noble Pile of Building. Here are also many other Magnificent Palaces, a great Number of Religious Houses, and Hospitals, too many to mention here. Here are seven Publick Foun∣tains, seven Principal Streets, about which are seven stately Houses rented by the Publick; seven Parish Chur∣ches, seven Noble Families, seven Li∣censed Midwives, and seven Gates of Dorick Work. The Artificers and Tradesmen make Fifty Two Compa∣nies: All which Constitute nine lar∣ger Bodies, among which the Cutlers and Armour-makers are chief.
LOvain, Louvain, or Loeven, is reckoned the Second City in this Province, the head of a Quarter or Tetrarchy, most pleasently seated on the River Dyle, and is one of the lar∣gest places in the Low-Country, being
three Rod more in Circuit than Ghent within the Walls, in which are many delightful Fields, pleasant Orchards, and fine Gardens. It is encompassed with large deep Ditches, cut in many places through a Flinty Rock, or very hard Gravel. The Walls are strong∣ly built, being raised from the very bottom of the Ditch, so that scarce a third part of the Work comes at a distance into view; and in the Circuit of these Walls are 53 Towers, and no less than 16 Draw-Bridges, placed conveniently for the better securing of the Gates, which are in number 11, built all of curious white Stone. The Buildings of the Town, in general, are neither well built, nor well kept, but the Stadt-house is a stately Stru∣cture. Here is a famous University, which has 43 Colleges. The Orders of the Dominicans, Franciscans, and Carthusians, have each of them a Con∣vent: The Jesuits have also their pro∣per College. This Town stands 15 Miles East of Brussels.
BOisleduc, or Hertogen Bosche, the Head of a Quarter or Tetrarchy, a Frontier of the Hollanders; Situa∣ted upon the Confluence of the Dom∣mel and Aa. It is of a Triangular Form, seated on a Hill in the midst of a Fenny level of great extent, so that the Avenues to the Town are up∣on Artificial Causays, made turning and winding, to be commanded in all Places by one or other of the six Scounces or Forts, at some distance without the Town. It is encompassed with a strong Wall, and a deep and broad Ditch, seconded by good Bul∣warks and Ramparts, and all other such Works as may render a Town so commodiously Situated, little less than impregnable. Several Canals (some bearing large Vessels) run through this City; over which lie Fifty one Stone Bridges, and Thirty eight Wood∣en ones. The Market place is spaci∣ous enough, and is remarkable for the fair Building wherewith it is Sur∣rounded. It has a great Trade in
Needles and Knives of better Metal, besides great quantities of Woollen and Linnen Cloth. It stands Sixty two Miles North East of Brussels.
BReda, a Frontier of the Hollan∣ders, in Boisleduc Quarter, a place pleasantly seated, and is consi∣derable for its bigness; and is both well built and populous; and also a place of great Strength, being encom∣passed with very thick Walls, and Mounts of Earth, and two Trenches always full of Water, one whereof is very broad and deep: The Town is handsomely built, and has a strong and beautiful Castle, and fair Palace for the Prince of Orange, (our King,) to whom the whole Town do more properly belong. Here is commonly a good Garison; and ever since the surprize of the Town by the Turf Boat, it is the custom to search all laden Boats by stabbing them with a Spit. This Town stands Forty eight Miles North of Brussels.
BErgen op Zome, is another Fron∣tier of the Hollanders, of singu∣lar importance by Reason of its Situa∣tion between Brabant, Flanders, Hol∣land, and Zealand; and the greatest part of the Country about it lies very low, and is Habitable only by Banks. It is certainly at present a place of exceed∣ing Strength; for besides its Wall and Trench, it is provided of Half Moons, Hornworks, and other Structures of Defence, contrived by such as are most Skilful in the Art of Fortifica∣tion. The Buildings of the Town are very fair and handsome; and its three Market Places are large and ca∣pacious. Amongst the Edifices, the Church of St. Lambert, and the Mar∣quesses Palace deserves Observation. This Town stands Forty two Miles North of Brussels, and Eighteen of Antwerp.
GEmblours, a Frontier Town of the Spaniards on the Borders of Na∣mur, situated upon the steep of an Hill; being environ'd by Precipices and deep Vallies on all sides but to∣wards the East, which it is overtop'd by the highest point of the said Hill, at the Foot whereof runs the small River Lorn. This Town is but small, and is most remarkable for the fa∣mous Abby of St. Benedict, the Ab∣bot whereof is Temporal as well as Spiritual Lord of the Town. This Town stands 20 Miles South-West of Brussels.
NIville, another Spanish Frontier on the Borders of Hainault. It is but a small place, but well fortified, and enjoys several ample Priviledges. It is most remarkable for the famous Nunnery, and the great Quantities of fine Linnen Cloth, said to equal that
of Cambray. This Town stands 13 Miles South of Brussels.
THe Marquisate of the Holy Empe∣ror, is a very small Province, ac∣counted one of the Four Quarters or Tetrarchies of Brabant, bounded on the West with Flanders, from which separated by the River Scheld, and on all other sides by Brabant. It is much smaller than it was formerly, not being above seven Miles long, and four broad; yet it is reckoned a distinct Province from the rest of the Netherlands.
The Chief Rivers are, 1. Scheld, which washes Antwerp, and divides this Province from Flanders, and then Brabant from Flanders. 2. Schynt, which also runs by Antwerp, and there falls into the Scheld.
The chief and only place of Note in this Province is Antwerp, the Me∣tropolis of all these Provinces. It stands on the River Scheld on the Bor∣ders of Flanders, 22 Miles North of Brussels, and 75 South of Amsterdam. it is now under the subjection of the Spaniards. I find no Villages in this Province.
ANtwerp was formerly one of the most famous places in Europe, and still a Noble City, deservedly counted the chief of these Provinces. It is nigh eight Miles in Circuit, and is compared to a Bow, the string of which is represented by the River Scheld, on which it stands. It is en∣compassed with vast strong and beau∣tiful Walls, being 110 Foot broad on the top, upon which are four or five Rows of Linden Trees regularly plant∣ed; the Walls themselves being ex∣cellently faced with Stone, having eight strong Bulwarks contrived with great Art for mutual Defence, and 13 fine Gates for entrance. The Streets
are straight and large, and the Build∣ings more Stately and Magnificent, for Beauty equalling, if not surpassing, any in all Europe. On the South side of the City stands the Cittadel, an incomparable Work, about a Mile in Compass: It is a Pentagon composed of five Royal Bastions, the best con∣trived of all Modern Fortifications, commanding both City and Country. To describe all the Churches, publick Buildings, &c. would take a Volume. For matter of Trade it once surpassed any place in the World, but now much declined, though still of vast re∣sort, by reason of the excellent River which bears Ships of the greatest Bur∣then close up to the very shore.
MEchlin, or Malines, is another very small Province, bounded on every side with Brabant, and is nigh the middle of it, though not far off the Borders of Flanders. It is in length about eight Miles, and in breadth six.
It is a distinct Province from the rest, and Residence for the Parliament for these Countries, but has not those Priviledges that Brabant has; for that Reason the Women here when they are ready to Lie-in, go into Bra∣bant to be brought to Bed, that their Children may enjoy their Privi∣ledges.
In the compass of this Province lies one City, or Walled Town, and nine Villages. The City is called Mechlin, on the River Demer, four∣teen Miles almost North East of Brus∣sels,
and as many South East of Ant∣werp, and under the Spaniards.
Chief Rivers are, 1. Demer, which runs through the middle, and washes Mechlin, and then into Brabant, and falls into the Scheld. 2. Senne, which here falls into the Demer.
To this Province is usually joyned (by Geographers) the Dukedom of Aerschot, lying Eastward of Mechlin, about thirteen Miles long, and four broad. The Chief Place is Aerschot, thirteen Miles East of Mechlin, (on the Demer) under the Spaniards.
MEchlin, or Malines, is very com∣modiously seated on the River Demer, which runs through the midst of it, dividing the City into divers Islands, which are united in several Places by a great number of Bridges. It is a place of con∣siderable Strength, being Fortified with good Walls, but much more defenseable by Reason of its own level Situation, and the flatness of
the adjoyning Country, which up∣on every little occasion, may be laid under Water. The Houses are ve∣ry neatly built, and considerable both for Beauty and largeness of Structure. It is divided into seven Parishes, each of which have a Mag∣nisicent and Stately Church; that of St. Rumbald being Chief, ha∣ving a very lofty Tower. The Chief Trade of this Place consists in Tanning, making of Linnen Cloth, and casting great Artillery and Bells.
LIege, has on the East, Limburg and Juliers in Germany; on the West and North, Hainault, Namur and Brabant; and on the South, Luxem∣bourg. It is part of the Westphalian Circle in Germany, though annexed to these Provinces, and is in length about 74 Miles, and in breadth 35.
The Soil is very fruitful, produ∣cing great plenty of Fowl and Veni∣son, Mines of Lead and Iron, with large Quarries of Marble of all sorts, and Alablasters, which very much en∣riches this Country. It has in it 24 Cities or Walled Towns, and 1800 Villages. The Chief City is Liege.
Chief Rivers are, 1. Maes, which here washes Dinant, Hoey, Liege, Mae∣stricht, Stochem and Maeseyck, and runs into Gelderland. 2. Demer, which here washing Bilsen and Huffelt, runs
into Brabant. 3. Jecker, which washes Tongres, and falls into the Maes at Maestricht. 4. Wesdret, which washes Viviers, and falls into the Maes at Liege.
The Towns in this Province are thus situated: 1. Hamont, the most North Town. 2. Peer, nine Miles South-West of Hamont. 3. Brey, se∣ven Miles East of Peer. 4. Maeseyck, 11 Miles East of Brey, (on the Maes) bordering on Juliers. 5. Stochem, five Miles South of Maeseck, (on the Maes▪) 6. Herk, 25 Miles nigh West of Stochem, (on the Herk) 7. Haf∣felt, five Miles East of Herk, (on the Demer.) 8. St. Truyen. eight Miles South-West of Haffelt. 9. Tongeren, 10 Miles East of St. Truyen. 10. Bil∣sen, five Miles North-East of Tonge∣ren. 11. Maestricht, six Miles East of Bilsen, (on the Maes,) by Limburg. This is under the Hollanders. 12. Liege or Luyck, the Metropolis, 13 Miles South of Maestricht, (on the Maes.) 13. Hoey, on the same River, 14 Miles South-West of Liege. 14. Chi∣ney, 17 Miles nigh South-West of Hoey. These are all (except Mae∣stricht)
under the Bishop of Liege. 15. Dinant, 10 Miles South-West of Chiney, (on the Maes.) 16. Floren∣nes, 10 Miles West of Dinant. 17. Walcourt, or Valencourt, seven Miles West of Florennes. 18. Thuin, 10 Miles nigh West of Walcourt. These are all under the French.
LIege, or Luyck, is the Principal Ci∣ty in this Province, situated in a pleasant Valley environed with Hills; the River Maes entring it in two Branches accompanied with lesser Streams, which make many delight∣ful Islands. It is above four Miles in Circuit, but inferiour to several o∣thers in these parts for Beauty or Ri∣ches, the Houses being for the most part built of Timber, some of them being covered with Boards, and some with Slates; and the Streets are nei∣ther broad, nor cleanly kept. On the Brow of a Hill which hangs over it, stands the Citadel or Castle of great strength, built to Command the
Town, without which it would be but of small Consequence. It is a fa∣mous University, Endowed with large Ecclesiastical Revenues. Here are eight Collegiate, and 32 Parochial Churches; of these most are fair and stately. The whole Town is made up of Thirty Two Companies of Freemen, among whom the Gold∣smiths have the Preheminence.
MAestricht is the second City in this Province, subject to the Hollanders. It is situated upon the River Maes, by which it is cut tho∣row, not in the midst, but on one side by the said River, and the lesser part which lies towards Germany is called the Wick. It is fortified with good Works, besides a strong Wall and Trench, and the Wick is said to be stronger than the Town. To∣wards the South-East lies a Hill, which rises gently, and overlooks part of the Town, under which is one of the Noblest Quarries of Stone
in the World: To prevent this Dis∣advantage, the Bastion answering to it is built very high. One Advantage to the Besieger is the Nature of the Earth, which is very Minable, and Commodious for Intrenching. The private Houses are generally covered with black Slate, otherwise not very beautiful. The Town-House is a very fair Structure; and the Stone-Bridge, which joyns both parts of the City, has nine Arches, and is ve-beautiful. Here are nigh Twenty Monasteries, and three Dutch Chur∣ches; and one common to the Eng∣lish and French.
DInant, is a Frontier Town of the French in this Province, on the Borders of Namur. It stands on the East-Bank of the River Maes, (scarce two Miles from Bovines on the other side) over which it has a Stone-Bridge. It is but a small place, but yet of account; and was formerly of vast Trade, but it has been so often destroyed, that the Trade have been extreamly hindred; but however the Inhabitants have a considerable Re∣venue from Black Marble, Iron and Brass. This Town stands 38 Miles South-West of Liege, and 14 South of Namur.
LImburg has on the East, Juliers in Germany; on the West, the Bishoprick of Liege; and the North, part of Liege and Juliers; and on the South Luxemburgh. This is also accounted a part of the Circle of Westphalia in Germany, being in length about Thirty eight Miles, and in breadth Thirty.
This Province produces all neces∣sary Commodities, except Wine, which defect is Recompensed with excellent Wheat, great store of Fewel, and plenty of the best Iron Mines in all these Countries. It has in it five Cities or Walled Towns, and 123 Villages. The Chief City in Limburg.
Chief Rivers are, 1. Maes, which runs but through a little part of this Province. 2. Geul, which washes
Valkenburg, and falls into the Maes 3. Wesdret, which watereth Limburg, and runs into Liege. 4. Bervine, which washes Dalem, and falls into the Maes.
The Towns of these Province are thus Situated. 1. Remborch, the most North Eastern Town on the Borders of Juliers. 2. Rolduck, four Miles South ot Remborch, on the Borders of Juliers. 3. Falkenburg, or Fau∣quemont, thirteen Miles West of Rol∣duck, (on the Geul.) 4. Dalem, ten Miles nigh South West of Valkenburg, (on the Bermine) these are all under the Hollanders. 5. Limburg, the Me∣tropolis, 15 Miles nigh South East of Dalem, (on the Wesdret) and 70 nigh East of Brussels. This is under the Spaniards, and is the on∣ly place of Note that they now have here.
LImburg is the Chief City in this Province, which is Situated upon a Rock, which overlooks all the Country round about; at the bot∣tom thereof runs the River Wesdrit, almost round it among several shady Woods. It is but a small City, for it chiefly consists of one broad short Street; neither is it considerable for its Beauty, for the Building are for the most part of Wood, but it is of no small Consideration for its Strength, for it is encompassed with a strong Wall and a Trench, and the access to it, which is on the North side, is extreamly difficult, lying all along upon the edge of the Rock; from one side thereof to the other the Gate of the Town (over which are the Go∣vernors Lodgings) spreeds it self, and quite Locks up and Commands the whole Passage.
VAlkenburg, or Vauquemont, is reck∣oned the Second City in Limburg, said to belong to the Bishop of Liege, though now under the Hollanders. It is situated upon the River Geul, and is large, and indifferent neatly Built, as well as tollerably Fortifi'd; but the Castle, which stands above it, up∣on a steep Rock, is a place of more than ordinary Strength, being inac∣cessible, and impregnable to an E∣nemy that brings not Cannon along with him: In it are said to be certain Caves of so prodigious a Bigness, that a whole Army may be well hid in them. Yet in the year 1672, upon the News of the French coming, it was immediately quitted. It stands 20 Miles North of Limburg.
LVxemburg, or Lutzenburg, has on the East, the Archbishoprick of Triers in Germany; on the West, some of the Bishoprick of Liege, and Champagne in France; on the North, Liege and Limburg; and on the South Lorrain in France. It is in length about Eighty two Miles, and in breadth Seventy two.
It is for the most part fruitful of Corn, yielding also some Wines, some Mines, and many excellent Quarries of goodly Stone. The We∣stern parts are somewhat barren of Corn, but very plentiful in Fowl and Venison. It has in it Twenty three Cities or Walled Towns, and 1169 Villages. The Chief City of the whole is Luxemburg.
Chief Rivers are, 1. Moselle, which here washes Maisiers, Thionville, Re∣mich, and Wasserbillich, runs into Ger∣many. 2. Ourt, which here washes Hofalize, La Roche, and Durbuy, runs into Liege. 3. Semoy, which here washes Chiney and Buillon, runs a little into France, and falls into the Maes. 4. Sour, which washes Dietkick and Ethternack, falls into the Moselle.
The Towns of this Province are thus situated: 1. Durbuy, the most Northern Town of Note, (on the Ourt.) 2. Bastoigne, 21 Miles nigh South of Durbuy. 3. Viander, 19 Miles East of Bastoigne, (on the Vra.) 4. Dietkirk, six Miles nigh South of Vianden, (on the S••ur.) 5. Arlon, 17 Miles South-West of Dietkirk. 6. Lux∣embourg, the Metropolis, 13 Miles nigh East of Arlon, (on the Alsitz,) and above 100 nigh South-East of Brussels. 7. Rode Macheren, 10 Miles nigh South-East of Luxemburg, (nigh the Moselle.) 8. Thionville, six Miles South-West of Rode Macheren, (on the Moselle.) 9. Esche, nigh 10 Miles North-West of Thionville. 10. Vir∣ton, 15 West of Esche. 11. Yvoix, or
Ivoix, 17 Miles West of Virton. 12. Montmedy, 12 South-East of Yvoix. 13. Stenay, or Altenay, eight Miles nigh West of Montmedy, (on the Maes.) 14. Dampvillers, 12 Miles South-East of Stenay. 15. Masiers, 32 Miles East of Dampvillers, (on the Moselle) bor∣dering on Lorrain. These are all un∣der the French.
In the Bounds of this Province lies the Dukedom of Buillon, and Terri∣tory of St. Hubart, (both belonging to the Bishop of Liege) though at pre∣sent under the French. The Chief Places are, 1. St. Hubart, 13 Miles VVest of Bastoigne. 2. Buillon, or Bo∣villon, 19 Miles nigh South-VVest of St. Hubart.
LVxemburg, or Lutzenburg, is the Principal City of this Province, and is commodiously seated in respect of Strength, upon the little River Al∣stitz, which divides it into two equal parts; the best part of it stands on the top of a Hill, and is surrounded with very good and defensible Walls, and other proper Fortifications there∣to belonging. It is of great compass, and is indifferently stored with good Stone-Buildings, but by reason of the many Hazards of War it has gone through, many of the Houses were not only neglected, but deserted by the Owners. The Old Town, which in former times was a large and well-built City, is now but only the Su∣burbs to the New. Here is a Cloister of Franciscans, said to be founded in the Life-time of St. Francis. It has been under the French ever since the year 1684. who since their late posses∣sion have much added to its Fortifi∣cations.
THionville is the second City in this Province, commodiously seated upon the Western Bank of the River Moselle. It is a place of very great Strength, encompassed with a Brick and Stone VVall, having six Bul∣warks, and strengthened with four large Hornworks; the broad and deep Ditch which surrounds it not be∣ing destitute of VVater even in the greatest Drought in Summer. The outward sloping Curtain is all along thick set with strong Stakes or Palli∣sadoes; and before the Gate that opens towards Luxemburg, is more∣over raised a vast Hornwork. This Town stands 14 Miles South of Lux∣emburg.
MOntmedy, deserves to be menti∣oned here, though it is a place of no great bigness, yet it is always reckoned a place of great strength. It is very conveniently situated upon the top of an high Hill, the foot whereof is watered by the River Chier. It has been oftentimes taken by the French in the Wars of these later Ages, which was generally imputed to its want of Provisions, and a sufficient Garison.
GElderland, (I mean only that part which is subject to the Spaniards) or the Quarter of Ruermond, has on the East, and North, Cleves in Ger∣many; on the West, Brabant; and on the South, Juliers in Germany. It lies some distance from the rest of Gelderland, being 36 Miles long, and 28 broad.
The Soil is Fruitful, and bears all sorts of Grains; abounding moreover with rich Pasture Grounds, which Fattens great droves of Cattel, which are sent from many far places.
Chief Rivers are, 1. Maes, which runs through the midst of this part, washing Ruermond and Venlo, and so passes on, dividing Brabant from the rest of Gelderland. 2. Niers, which washes Gelders, and runs into Cleves.
The Cities or Walled Towns are only three, and are thus situated. 1. Gelders, the Metropolis nigh the Borders of Cleves, (on the Niers) a∣bout Eighty four Miles North East of Brussels. 2. Venlo, ten Miles South West of Gelders, (on the Maes) nigh the Borders of Juliers. 3. Ruermond, or Roermond, eleven Miles South of Venlo, (on the Maes) likewise by the Borders of Juliers. These are all Subject to the Spaniards.
GElders, the Chief City in this part, and gives Name to the whole Province; It is a place of no very great bigness, seated in a very conve∣nient place, and receives the little River Niers into its Trenches. It has a Castle of great Antiquity, the antient Seat of those who were Governors of this Province, under several Titles; which together with the City it self, is strongly Fortified by the Marshes that encompass them both; but whe∣ther it may be imputed to this, or to
the firm Loyalty of the Inhabitants, that it was never yet brought under the Jurisdiction of the Vnited Pro∣vinces, I shall not presume to deter∣mine. This Town stands 26 Miles nigh South East of Nimigen, the Chief of the Province.
RVermond, or Roermond, which gives Name to this Quarter or Part, is situated on the River Maes, where it receives the Roer, very convenient for Defence. It is a rich and well Peopled City, and is remarkable both for the Strength of its Walls, and the neat∣ness of its Buildings. It is a Bishops See, and is Cathedral Church, is de∣dicated to the Holy Ghost; here is al∣so an ample and wealthy Monastery of the Carthusians, so much commen∣ded by Travellers. This Town stands 21 Miles South of Gelders.
CAmbray, or Cambreses, was some times reckoned a part of Hainault, but distinct, bounded on the North and East with Hainault; on the West with Artois; and on the South, Pi∣cardy in France. It is length 32 Miles, and in breadth 18.
The Soil of this Province is extra∣ordinary Fruitful, producing great quantities of Corn, Grains, and seve∣ral Fruits, but is not altogether so good for Wines. The Archbishop of this Province was sometimes reckoned a Prince of the Empire.
The Chief Rivers are, 1. Scheld, which here washes Crevecoer and Cambray, and then runs into Hainault and Flanders. 2 Selle, which here washes Chateau Cambreses, and runs into Hainault. 3. Sambre, which go
through a little part of this Province, and runs into Hainalt.
The Cities or Walled Towns are here but three in Number, and are thus situated: 1. Cambray, 58 Miles South-East of Brussels, (on the Scheld▪) 2. Crevecoer, five Miles South of Cam∣bray, (on the Scheld.) 3. Chateau Cam∣breses, 12 Miles East of Crevecoer, (on the Selle.) These are all under the French.
CAmbray, or Camerick, is the Chief City in this Province, by the Bor∣ders of Hainault. It is situated upon the River Scheld, which runs through it, and fills all its Ditches. It is said to be of greater Importance than al∣most any other in the Low-Countries; being regularly fortified with Ram∣parts, Bastions, Half-Moons, and two good Forts; and is commanded by a Citadel of Square Figure; and is moreover placed in a most advanta∣gious Situation; having on the West∣side, and in a low bottom, exceed∣ing
large Suburbs, with delicate Mea∣dows and Gardens lying all along the River. The private Buildings are ve∣ry fair, and the publick much fairer. It contains nine Parishes, and has three Abbies, with a great Number of Re∣ligious Houses, besides Hospitals and other publick Buildings. Here are many Rich Merchants, and the prin∣cipal Trade consists in making that fine Linnen called Cambrick. It stands 32 Miles South-West of Mons, and 94 North of Paris.
BEcause Calais is a Frontier Town, and a place of great Importance, I think it will be convenient to give a Description of it, though it be in no part of Flanders.
CAlais, or Calis, a very strong Town in the Province of Picardy in France, once belonging to the English, and held by them 210 years; but regain∣ed by the French in the Reign of Queen Mary; the loss of which grie∣ved her so much, as it was thought the cause of her death. It is very advantagiously situated for Defence nigh the Sea; now very strongly for∣tified after the Modern Fashion, with an impenitrable Wall and Bastions of Earth, a deep Trench full of Water to the Landward, and a large Citta∣del.
The Wall and Cittadel were built about 65 years since. The old Stone-Wall and Ditch are still re∣maining, but enclosed with the new. The Town is somewhat bigger than Dover in England, from which it stands opposite, and is very populous, and well frequented, by reason of its be∣ing the immediate Port from England, and for that Reason called the Key of France. It hath a large square Piazza or Market-Place, wherein are two great Markets weekly kept, the one on Tuesdays, the other on Saturdays. The Government is by a Mayor and four Eschevins, chosen annually by the Burgesses or Freemen.
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