Melaan Canal : Mechelen, a charming city in Belgium, is taking an important step in reviving its historic waterways. Starting in January 2025, a section of the Melaan canal at the former Posthoorn bridge will be uncovered in Sint-Katelijnestraat, bringing the city’s past back to life. This project is part of a broader initiative to put vliet back at the center of Mechelen’s cityscape.

@Stad Mechelen
What is a Vliet ?
Mechelen, a city closely linked to the Dijle River, is rediscovering its rich water history as a “Water City. One of the many branches of the Dijle, the Melaanvliet, is coming back to life in the historic city center. A vliet is a traditional Flemish waterway, often narrower and more winding than a canal….Mechelen, a city closely linked to the Dijle River, is rediscovering its rich water history as a “Water City. One of the many branches of the Dijle, the Melaanvliet, is coming back to life in the historic city center. A vliet is a traditional Flemish waterway, often narrower and more winding than a canal….

clearly visible as a tributary of the Dijle River.
@Regional Image Bank Mechelen
The word “vliet” comes from the Old Dutch word for “stream” of “Canal”. Floods were originally natural waterways that were often later modified for agriculture or transportation.
A Look at the Past
The visible waterway is part of the historic New Melaan canal (vliet), which is gradually being restored at various locations around the city. The most famous piece, located in the Melaan, was unveiled in 2006. Other notable examples include the Koolvliet at Zakstraat-Muntstraat, part of the Old Melaan, and the exposed quay wall in the garden of the Archbishop’s Palace.
Continue reading below the photos

@Verschueren Eddy
@Verschueren Eddy
Why restore the Canals?
At the beginning of the 20th century, the Mechelen canals, once tributaries of the Dyle river, were filled in for sanitary reasons and due to floods. These problems were remedied years ago and the city embarked on a mission to bring back these waterways for various reasons:
- Improved quality of life: Water features create a more pleasant living environment.
- Enhanced aesthetic: Restored canals add to the historic charm of Mechelen.
- Enhanced biodiversity: Channels provide habitats for various aquatic animals and attract wildlife.
- Sustainable urban development: canals contribute to a greener and more sustainable cityscape.
The Restoration Process
Public Works Alderman Patrick Princen emphasized the benefits of restoring the canals. He explained that the addition of a helophyte filter, a system of marsh plants, will help purify rainwater.

@Verschueren Eddy
Addressing Challenges
While promising, the project has also presented logistical challenges. The construction site in the busy access road downtown, St. Catherine Street has necessitated temporary traffic detour for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. However, the city has implemented clear signage and alternate routes to minimize disruption.

@Verschueren Eddy
A better future
Mechelen’s commitment to restoring its waterways is a sign of a broader ambition to create a more attractive and sustainable city. By prioritizing water as a central element in urban planning, Mechelen is setting an example for other cities seeking to revitalize their historic heritage.

@Verschueren Eddy
Conclusion
The resurfacing of the Melaan canal marks an important milestone in Mechelen’s urban renewal. As the city continues to invest in its waterways, it is creating a more vibrant and livable environment for its residents and visitors.
Learn more
- About the project: www.mechelen.be/stadsvernieuwing/sint-katelijnestraat
- About the work: www.mechelen.be/sint-katelijnestraat-werf