Brakel

Brakel is a municipality in the Belgian province of East Flanders in the Denderstreek and the Flemish Ardennes. The name is derived from a Carolingian villa Braglo first mentioned in 866 and located in the center of Opbrakel. Since 1970, the municipality has comprised the villages of Nederbrakel, Opbrakel, Michelbeke, Elst, Zegelsem. In 1977 Everbeek, Parike and part of Sint-Maria-Oudenhove were added. On January 1, 2006 Brakel had a population of 13,726. The area is 56.46 km² which gives a population density of 243 per km². The mayor is Herman De Croo.

The region is known for the green hills and valleys, which attract cyclists and walkers and play a role in the Ronde van Vlaanderen cycling race.

The Braekel chicken is named after the town.

The Uitkijktoren, a 32-metre high viewing tower was opened in April 2001. It is located at 50°48′45″N 3°44′21″E / 50.8124°N 3.7391°E / 50.8124; 3.7391 on the Twaalfbunderstraat, north-west of Nederbrakel. Orientation boards at the top enable visitors to identify places of interest in all directions.