Send Gift Baskets to Herstal, Belgium

Settlement in this area began around the fifth millennium B.C. due to the proximity of the river Meuse and the abundance of local resources. By the end of the Roman era and the beginning of the Merovingian period, the hamlet was a fortified stronghold. Here, a ferry carried travelers to Jupille from the major road connecting Tongeren to Aachen.

Based on the elements hari (“army”) and stal (“resting place,” compared to “stable”), Herstal has Franconian origins. Herstal is first mentioned in Latin documents from 718 (Cheristalius corrected to Charistalius) and 723 (Harastallius). In 919) and 1197, Eristail and Harstail may be the first non-Latinized occurrences.

Because of its proximity to the major cities of Tongeren, Maastricht, and Liège, Pippin of Herstal (ca 635–714), Mayor of the Palace and de facto ruler of Austrasia and Neustria, and founder of the Carolingian dynasty, probably chose this location as his primary residence. In addition to being the father of Charles Martel, who won the decisive Battle of Tours to stop the Arab-Muslim advance into northwestern Europe, Pippin was supposedly the great-grandfather of Charlemagne, who was also born in Herstal. Herstal’s glory as the empire’s capital ended when Charlemagne established his capital in Aachen, ending Herstal’s time as the empire’s capital.

Walwater Gifts deliver all over Belgium. At Walwater Gifts to Herstal, we have extensive experience in sending gift parcels all over the world. However, each country has unique Customs Regulations and delivery times. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or need assistance placing your order online.