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MICHELBEKE MICHELBEKE is a village which is now part of the Town of Brakel in South-East-Flanders (Belgium). The village was first mentioned in 1150. Its name originates from the words "miglo" and "beca". "Miglo" is the Germanic word for "mud looking like urine" and "beca" is Germanic for brook. Like its neighbouring village Elst, the patronage of the parish Michelbeke belonged to the Saint Hermes Chapter of Ronse during the ancien regime. Feudally, Michelbeke belonged for a certain period to the noble family of Egmont. In 1675, the feudal domain to which Michelbeke belonged became a barony. The patron saint of Michelbeke is Saint Sebastian, who was worshipped here as a protector against the plague. On the third Sunday of June, the Saint Sebastian horse parade is taking place. This parade starts in front of the church of Michelbeke, on the Saint Sebastian Square, on passes through most streets of Michelbeke. Before the start of the parade, horses and horsemen are blessed by the local Catholic priest. For information in Dutch about Michelbeke, push here. Voor Nederlandstalige informatie over Michelbeke, klik hier. EMBLEM: Description of the emblem: The village of Michelbeke has following shield, as determined by the (Dutch) Royal Decree of August 4, 1818: Parted. 1. made of azure, with golden corn sheaf; 2. made of azure, with a scythe and spade in natural colours, placed en sautoir.