Leuven

Leuven's town hall was built in the middle of the 15th century to a design by Matheus de Layens. The Gothic architecture is more reminiscent of a reliquary than of a stone emblem of civic pride. The Town Hall's facades are vertically sectioned by niches which stood unoccupied until the 19th century, they now show characters from local history.

Antwerp

Here we find the monumental Renaissance town hall, designed by Cornelis Floris de Vriendt. The brass eagles on the corners symbolise the city's ties with the German Empire. The Square is surrounded by late 16th century Guilhalls which form a splendid backdrop for the fountain of Brabo. This figure, the work of Jef Lambeaux, portrays the legend behind the name of Antwerp. According to the legend, Silvius Brabo finds his way barred by a giant, Antigone, who demands a toll, the Roman hacks Antogone's hand off and throws it (hand-werpen) into the river Scheldt. The land between the Rhine and the Scheldt was thereby freed and received the name Brabant.

Liege

The high and truly imposing Curtius house is a classic example of Meuse Renaissance. It was built between 1600 and 1610 by order of Jean de Corte. He was ennobled by both the Spanish king and the German Emperor, latinized his name into Curtius and invested a great deal of his wealth in charitable works and  in his impressive house. Liege was the most important Belgian centre of armaments manufacturing. Its favourable location on the banks of the River Meuse led to a flourishing arms trade with various European cities.

general information

Kingdom

capital: Brussels

area: 30 500 km2

population: 11 millions

population density/km2: 361

EU member since 1952

National holiday: July 21

national anthem: La Brabanconne

• Belgians eat more chips than anyone else.

• Half the energy used in Belgium is nuclear power. Belgium, with Antwerp as the main centre, accounts for 70% of the world's diamond cutting industry.

• Belgium is the EU country which exports the highest percentage of its production. 

• Belgium is divided into three communities and three regions: the Flemish community, the French-speaking community and the German-speaking community. The regions are Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels. 

• Its political architecture is highly complex.

• An average Belgian consumes 8 kg of chocolate per annum and per inhabitant.

Home to Flemish, French and German speaking people, Belgium is a playground where European history and modern lifestyle come together. Stroll around the funky cafes of Brussels for some great hot chocolate or home brewed beer, and step into the stylish world of Antwerp where bars are open 24 hours. Don't miss the gorgeous towns of Bruges, Ghent, Ostend and la Roche-en-Ardenne.