Official name- Kingdom of Belgium (Dutch: Koninkrijk Belgie, French: Royaume de Belgique, German: Konigreich Belgien). The country got its name from one of the Celtic tribes - the Belgas.

Location- State in Northwestern Europe. It borders in the southeast with Luxembourg, in the east with Germany, in the north with the Netherlands, in the south and west with France. In the northwest it is washed by the North Sea.

Territory- 30,528 sq. km. The territory of Belgium consists of three geographical regions: low Belgium coastal plain up to 100 m above sea level in the north-west of the country, middle Belgium - central plateau at an altitude of 100-200 meters above sea level and high Belgium - Ardennes upland, located in the south- in the east of the country at altitudes of 200-500 meters above sea level.

Population- 10.8 million people.. National composition: Flemings (about 60% of the population), Walloons (about 40% of the population). The Flemings inhabit the five northern provinces of Belgium - Flanders, and the Walloons - the five southern provinces that make up Wallonia.

Religion- The main religion is Catholicism (75%), among other religions there are Anglicanism, Protestantism, Islam.

Capital- Brussels.

Largest cities- Brussels (970 thousand), Antwerp (480 thousand), Ghent (234 thousand), Liege (201 thousand).

Language- The Flemings speak Dutch and its many dialects, the Walloons speak French, Walloon and some other languages.

Administrative division- In Belgium, there is a parallel dual system of administrative division:

Belgium is divided into three linguistic communities:
The Flemish Community includes the Flemish District and the Brussels-Capital District and the Francophone Community - the Walloon District and the Brussels-Capital District, a German-speaking Community that includes part of the province of Liege.

In addition, Belgium is divided into three regions - the Flemish Region, the Walloon Region, and the Brussels-Capital District.

In its turn,
The Flemish region is divided into provinces:
Province of Antwerp
Province of Limburg
Province of East Flanders
Province of West Flanders
Province of Flemish Brabant

The Walloon region is divided into provinces:
Hainaut Province
Province of Liege
Province of Luxembourg
Province of Namur
Province of Walloon Brabant

Form of government- Since its formation, Belgium has been a constitutional monarchy; since 1980, it has also been a federal state.

Head of State- the king, the de facto head of state - the prime minister.

Head of the government- Prime Minister.

Parliament - bicameral federal parliament. The upper house of parliament is the Senate (Dutch Senaat, French Senat), the lower house is the House of Representatives (French Chambre des Representants, Dutch Kamer van volksvertegenwoordigers). Deputies to both houses are elected by direct universal suffrage every four years. All Belgian citizens over 18 years of age can vote. 71 deputies are elected to the Senate, and 150 deputies to the House of Representatives.

Currency- euro (Before 2002 - Belgian franc).

Time- Moscow time minus 2 hours.

Electricity- 220 V, 50 Hz, plugs with two round pins (Euro socket).

System of weights and measures- metric (meters and kilograms).

The Kingdom of Belgium is a member of NATO, the UN and the EU. The population living in this territory is more than 10.5 million people. Further in the article we will tell you where Belgium is located, what territories it borders on, and also about its administrative structure and history.

General information

Belgium is a country with a constitutional parliamentary monarchy. According to the form of administrative-territorial structure, it is a federation. The currency of Belgium is the euro. The capital is the city of Brussels. The area of ​​Belgium is 30,528 square meters. km. The name België (Dutch) comes from the ethnonym of the Celtic tribe Belgians. Where is Belgium? The federation is located in Western Europe. Belgium borders the Netherlands in the north, France in the west and south, Germany in the east and Luxembourg in the southeast.

Brief historical background

In 54 BC. e. territory in the northern part of Gaul (where Belgium is now located) was conquered by the troops of Julius Caesar. After the Roman Empire fell, the Franks (Germanic tribes) took over the province in the fifth century. They created their kingdom on this territory. In the Middle Ages, België was part of the Duchy of Burgundy, and from 1556 to 1713 it was part of Spain. The separation of Belgian territory from the Netherlands began during the Eighty Years' War.

Since 1713, België has been classified as the Austrian Netherlands. From 1792 to 1815, Belgium passed to France. Then, until 1830, it was part of the Netherlands. This year, on September 23rd, a revolution took place. As a result of the unrest, Belgium gained independence and became a neutral kingdom. Its ruler at that time was Leopold I.

Post-independence development

The economy of the future federation was formed quite intensively in XIX century. The territory was the first in continental Europe to be built Railway. The railway line connected Brussels and Mechelen. IN late XIX century Belgium became a colonial country. From 1885 to 1908, it controlled the country of Congo, which is now a democratic republic. The active exploitation of the colony was one of the significant sources of industrial development and replenishment of capital in Belgium. During the First World War (it is called the "Great War") the future federation suffered greatly. In one of the cities (Ypres) poison gas was even used.

In 1925, due to the conclusion of an agreement between the Netherlands and Belgium, the latter lost its neutrality. In addition, it was demilitarized. During World War II, Belgium was captured by the Germans, and King Leopold III was deported to Germany. After the liberation of the territory, a new government was formed. The head of state was the king. In 2013, on the twenty-first of July, the coronation of Philip I took place. Since its formation, Belgium has been a constitutional monarchy, and since 1980 it has also been a federal country.

Administrative division

There are two parallel systems in the country. The Federation is divided into three regions. Of these, two, in turn, have their own provinces:

The Flemish region includes:

• Antwerp.
• East Flanders.
• Limburg.
• West Flanders.
• Flemish Brabant.

The Walloon region includes:

There is also the Brussels Capital Region. In addition, there are three language communities in Belgium. Their areas of responsibility include cultural issues, scientific and educational activities and sports. Regional leadership is involved in solving issues of the local economy, ecology, as well as in public works (for example, road construction).

Belgium map

The entire territory is divided into three geographical areas. In the southeast is the Ardennes Upland, in the northwest is the coastal plain. The third part is the central plateau. Low Belgium (coastal plain) consists mainly of polders and sand dunes. The first includes areas that are at risk of flooding. They are protected by dams or fields with special drainage channels located further from the sea. Polders have high soil fertility. Between the western sections (Scheldt and Lys) lies the Flemish Lowland. Behind it is Kempen (geographical area). The landscape in this area is mainly represented by meadows and coniferous forests, as well as corn fields.

Central Plateau

Between the valleys of the Meuse and Sambre rivers and Kempen lies Central Belgium. This is the central plateau. There are mainly clay plains that gradually rise towards the valleys. This area has the most fertile soil in all of Belgium. The central plateau includes the province of Hainaut, the south of Limburg and the north of Liege. Most of the land here is occupied by meadows and arable land. Between them there are hamlets (rural estates).

Ardennes Heights

High Belgium is characterized by an abundance of forests and a fairly low population density. The relief here is represented mainly by mountains. In this regard, agriculture is not developed in the territory. However, this region attracts quite a large number of tourists. Haute Belgium begins from the valleys of the Meuse and Sambre rivers and stretches to the south. Immediately behind them lies Condroz (geographical area). This territory is dominated by low hills, the height of which is no more than 300 m. Parts of the provinces of Liege, Emo and Namur belong to Haute Belgium. Behind them are high hills - the Ardennes. They are mostly covered with forest. Small villages located throughout the territory are connected by serpentine roads. The highest point in Belgium is located in the Ardennes - Mount Botrange (694 m).

Ethnic composition

The country's population is divided into two main groups. The first group includes the Flemings. They make up about 60% of all residents. About 40% are Walloons. The Flemings live in the five northern provinces. The official language in this territory is Dutch. Residents speak it and its many dialects. The Walloons inhabit the five southern provinces. They speak Walloon, French and some other languages. After the federation gained independence, it was a French-oriented region. At first there was one official language Belgium - French. However, it must be said that the Flemish always made up the majority of the population. But even in Flanders itself, for quite a long time, French was the only language of higher and secondary education.

After the end of the First World War, an active movement for the emancipation of the Flemings began. It developed into the so-called “language struggle.” The movement achieved results only in the 60s of the twentieth century. In 1963, a set of laws was adopted that regulated the use of a particular language in official cases. By 1980, the second official language of Belgium, Dutch, was officially recognized. However, despite achievements achieved, tensions remain between the federation's two main populations.

Political structure

As mentioned above, Belgium is also a federation. The head of government is the prime minister. Today this post is occupied by Elio Di Rupo. Usually the representative of the party that received the majority of votes in the elections becomes prime minister. The king appoints the government. Parliament also participates in approving its composition. According to the Constitution, the government must maintain linguistic parity: 50% must come from the Dutch-speaking community and 50% from the French-speaking group. The Federation Parliament consists of two chambers. The top one is the Senate. Lower - House of Representatives. Both of them are formed on the basis of direct general elections, which take place every 4 years. All residents of the country over 18 years of age have the right to vote. There are 150 deputies in the House of Representatives and 71 in the Senate. Belgium is sometimes called a double federation because it is divided simultaneously into three linguistic communities and three regions. Almost all of them have their own government and parliament. The exception is the Flemish Region and the Dutch-speaking Community. By mutual agreement, power was united in them. As a result, Belgium has six parliaments and as many governments. The federal government coordinates the actions of the other five government structures. In addition, she is responsible for defense, foreign affairs, pensions, monetary and economic policy and other national issues.

Useful information for tourists about Belgium, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Belgium, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Belgium.

• Capital: Brussels
• Territory: 30,528 sq. km
• Country code: +32
• Domain: .be
• Network: 220V
• Time: Moscow: -2 hours
• A visa is required to enter

Information about Belgium

Geography of Belgium

Belgium is located in western Europe, on the eastern coast of the North Sea. It borders the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. Washed by the North Sea.

There are three geographical regions: the coastal plain, the central plateau and the Ardennes Upland. The highest point is Botrange (694 m). The main rivers are the Scheldt and Meuse.

State

State structure

Constitutional monarchy and the federal state. The head of state is the king (currently Philip I). The actual head of state is the prime minister.

Language

Official languages: French, Dutch (Flemish) and German

According to the constitution, the population of Belgium is divided into 3 linguistic communities: French, Flemish and German-speaking. The region where the Dutch language is spoken (Flanders) is located in the north of the country and has a population of 5.86 million. (58%), French (Wallonia) - 3.29 million (32.2%), population of Brussels - approx. 80%, Francophones and 20% Flemings. In the east of Wallonia, the region where the German language is spoken is home to 67 thousand people.

Religion

Catholicism (70%), Islam (200 thousand), Protestantism (70 thousand), Judaism (35 thousand), Anglican Church (40 thousand), Orthodoxy (20 thousand). The church is separated from the state.

Currency

International name: EUR

History of Belgium

The first man appeared on the territory of Belgium about 400 thousand years ago. From this time until the 1st millennium BC, the country was inhabited by unknown disappeared peoples. The conquest of Europe by Western Aryan tribes marked the beginning of the change ethnic composition and in Belgium. Its stocky, dark-skinned aborigines disappeared, giving way to tall, warlike blond Gauls. Around 300 BC, the Gallic Belgae family finally settled here, giving its name to the state.

In 57 BC, Julius Caesar deprived the Belgae of their independence, incorporating them into the Roman Empire. As a result of centuries-old Romanization, the local population lost their language. Latin speech came into use, serving as the basis of the modern Walloon language of Southern Belgium. In Northern Belgium, from the 3rd century AD, the Germans began to actively settle. They laid the foundation for the Flemish people. Thus, two languages ​​began to exist on the territory of this small state. In the 5th–9th centuries, Belgium belonged first to the Franks and then to the “Holy Roman Empire”.

The development of cities in the 12th–14th centuries turned Belgium into the “workshop” of Europe. France and Germany fought for its possession for a long time, until in the 16th century it went to Spain for 150 years. But already in early XVIII century, Belgian territories became the possession of the Austrian Habsburgs. In 1794, Belgium was occupied by the troops of revolutionary France, of which it was also a part under Napoleon I. The defeat of Napoleon I did not bring freedom to Belgium. In 1815, the Congress of Vienna united Belgium with the Netherlands, aiming to make them a barrier against France. In 1830, as a result popular uprising Belgium freed itself from Dutch rule and became an independent state. In 1831, a constitutional monarchy was proclaimed in the state. From this time on, a period of rapid development of industry and the acquisition of their own colonies began. Two world wars prevented such favorable development of the country's economy. Foreign policy Belgium in the post-war period determined the development of the country for many decades: in 1944 the Benelux was created, in 1945 Belgium joined the UN, in 1949 it became one of the founders of NATO and a member of the Council of Europe. Accession to the Western European Union in 1954 helped Belgium significantly strengthen economically and become a profitable strategic partner.

The first man appeared on the territory of Belgium about 400 thousand years ago. From this time until the 1st millennium BC, the country was inhabited by unknown disappeared peoples. The conquest of Europe by Western Aryan tribes marked the beginning of a change in ethnic composition in Belgium. Its stocky, dark-skinned aborigines disappeared, giving way to tall, warlike blond Gauls. Around 300 BC, the Gallic family of Belgae finally settled here, giving the name to the state....

Belgium map

Popular attractions

Tourism in Belgium

Where to stay

Belgium is the most important political center in Europe, which is why most hotels here are located within the city limits and have everything necessary for holding business meetings, seminars, and conferences. The gradation of service level in hotels is standard - from five stars and below. The cost of accommodation directly depends on the service provided, so we can say that the prices here are quite reasonable, although slightly higher than in other European countries.

In Belgium there are hotels of such world giants of the hotel business as Holiday Inn, Ibis, Marriott and Hilton, decorated in the traditional style of these chains and providing the highest level of comfort. The location in such a hotel implies a high class of service, so the cost of living is quite high.

Congress hotels present greatest interest just for business people, because such hotels have well-established transport links to airports and business centers, and the rooms have all the necessary modern equipment for doing business.

Among tourists, the most popular are prestigious holidays in chateaus - ancient castles equipped as hotels with modern services. However, it is worth noting that this type of vacation is not a cheap pleasure. Staying in one of these rooms, you will feel like an aristocrat with all the privileges inherent in this status.

More economical, but no less colorful, will be the location in private hotels. The cost of living here is quite affordable, and only here you can fully immerse yourself in the traditional life of the Belgians and feel their hospitality. In the morning, the famous Belgian waffles are served here for breakfast, the aroma of which you will remember forever.

We can't help but mention hostels. They are scattered throughout the country and offer a very comfortable stay at a minimal price. Moreover, breakfast can be included in the price of your stay, or it can be ordered on site during check-in.

Popular hotels

Excursions and attractions in Belgium

Belgium is a beautiful European country with its own history, whose roots go back to the distant past, unshakable traditions and excellent Belgian cuisine. Belgium is architecture, painting, literature, excellent restaurants and, of course, the famous Belgian chocolate and beer (more than 500 brands). Beautiful architectural structures and interesting museums perfectly illustrate the history of this country.

The capital of Belgium Brussels plays important role on the political world stage. But above all, the city is interesting for its architecture, where medieval masterpieces are so appropriately combined with stunning buildings in the Art Nouveau style. The heart of Brussels is considered to be the central square Grand Place (Grote Markt) - one of the most beautiful squares in the world, surrounded by stunningly beautiful architectural masterpieces. The main attractions of the square are the majestic City Hall building - a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and the "King's House", which houses the Communal Museum. Not far from the square there is the famous fountain Manneken Pis (“Pissing Boy”). One of the main symbols of the city is the Atomium - a huge model of an iron molecule, 102 m high and weighing 2400 tons, consisting of spheres and covered with a steel shell. Also to most interesting places Brussels includes the Royal Palace, the Mini-Europe miniature park, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Palace of Justice, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Church of Our Lady of Sablon and the Cathedral of Sts. Mikhail and Gudula.

Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium, an important economic and industrial center, as well as one of the world's largest ports. Antwerp attracts with its architectural beauty, historical sights, interesting museums, numerous shops and restaurants. The main attractions are located in the historical center of the city. The most famous places to visit in Antwerp are the Cathedral of Our Lady, the City Hall, the Diamond Museum, the Rubens House Museum, the train station, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Steen Castle and the Antwerp Zoo.

The medieval city of Bruges is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities in Europe, often called the Venice of the North and the “chocolate capital” of Belgium. Medieval streets, narrow canals, museums, beautiful architectural structures, churches, historical monuments leave a truly unforgettable experience. The pearl of Bruges is the Church of Our Lady - one of the most impressive Gothic churches in Belgium, built back in the 14th – 15th centuries. Also interesting are such attractions as the Basilica of the Holy Blood, St. Salvator's Cathedral, Belfort Watchtower, Chocolate Museum, Market Square, Groeninge Museum, Beguinage, Cathedral of Christ the Savior and much more.

The city of Ghent is also an important tourist center in Belgium. Among its attractions it is worth highlighting the Ghent City Museum, the Museum contemporary art, Count's Castle (Gravensteen), St. Nicholas Church, St. Bavo Cathedral, Town Hall, St. Michael's Church and Archaeological Museum.

Belgium's tourism infrastructure is very well developed, and the huge number and variety of attractions attracts many travelers from all over the world every year.

Belgian cuisine

Belgian cuisine is similar to French cuisine, based on seafood. Each region in Belgium has its own special dish, but in general Belgian cuisine is fairly consistent. It may be less sophisticated than the French one, but it’s not for nothing that French gourmets come to eat here, and Belgian chefs are famous all over the world. Butter, cream, beer and wine are actively used. Real Belgian chocolate is famous all over the world. Creamy sweets - pralines - are especially good.

Local beers are very good and there are at least 300 varieties. Two of the most popular are Lambic, made from wheat and barley, and Trappist. You can even find beers infused with cherry and raspberry juice. According to the new law, most cafes can now sell alcohol. Beer and wine are freely sold without any restrictions.

Typically Belgian dishes can be complemented by French cuisine. In Belgium, many types of cheese are prepared and even in the markets they sell a large number of varieties of homemade cheese.

Belgian cuisine is similar to French cuisine, based on seafood. Each region in Belgium has its own special dish, but in general Belgian cuisine is fairly consistent. It may be less sophisticated than the French one, but it’s not for nothing that French gourmets come to eat here, and Belgian chefs are famous all over the world. Butter, cream, beer and wine are actively used. Real Belgian chocolate is famous all over the world. Creamy sweets - pralines - are especially good....

Tips

In the restaurant, the cost of service (15%) is already included in the bill; in a bar and cafe - 10-15% of the bill only for waiter services; in a taxi - included in the fare.

Visa

Office hours

The day off for museums is usually Monday. In Bruges, museums are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, in Tournai - on Tuesday.

Bank opening hours: from 8 to 12 and from 13.30 to 15 - 17 hours (except Saturday and Sunday). On Saturday banks are open until 12 noon.

Shops are open from Monday to Friday - from 8 to 18/19.30, on Saturday - from 8 to 12.30, except every first Saturday of the month, when shops are open until 17:00; supermarkets are open all day.

Purchases

In stores that have the "TAX FREE" sign, when purchasing goods, ask for a special receipt that exempts you from paying value added tax (about 13%). The money will be paid upon clearing customs.

Emergency numbers

Fire service - 100
police - 101
ambulance - 100

Photos of Belgium

Questions and feedback about Belgium

Question answer

A geographic atlas gives you an idea of ​​what Belgium looks like on a world map. Upon careful study, you can see that the kingdom of Belgium is located in the northwestern part of Europe, has a relatively small territory with a population not exceeding 11.5 million people. The relatively small size of the state (Belgium's area is 30,528 km²) allows you to get from one end to the other by train in just 2 hours.

Belgium's closest neighbors:

• Netherlands (in the north).
• Germany (in the east).
• Luxembourg (in the southeast).
• France (south and west).

In the northwest, Belgium has access to the North Sea.

The sunniest months of the year are April and September. The country's climate is influenced by the proximity of the North Sea, as well as the warm North Atlantic Current (a continuation of the Gulf Stream). Weather conditions are moderately warm. Precipitation patterns and temperature changes are favorable for development Agriculture. Thanks to moist winds blowing from the Atlantic, the sky is often covered with clouds in winter and summer. It rains regularly.

In the southeastern part of the country, the climate of the Ardennes is much more severe, which is explained by a decrease in marine influence. However, the territory of Belgium is rarely covered with snow. In January average temperature in the lowlands of the country it is approximately 3°C, in the Ardennes -1°C. In July, the average temperature is 18°C ​​and 14°C, respectively.

The rivers of Belgium belong to the North Sea basin. The largest of them are the Scheldt and Meuse. In the western part of the country in winter time There is usually no snow, and river streams do not freeze. Floods sometimes occur on the plains. To prevent them, numerous dams, canals and locks were built.

Attractiveness for tourists

Despite the small size of the country, Belgium's location contributes to a constant influx of foreign visitors. Belgium is an important Western crossroads, as evidenced by its place on the map of Europe. Tourists come mainly from the UK, Germany and France.

Travelers are attracted by clean beaches, well-kept parks and forests, ideal for active recreation. Gourmets love to taste the famous Belgian chocolate and excellent local beer. Jewelry lovers can find exquisite pieces at a lower price than in other European countries.

The tourist attractiveness of the state is explained by the presence of many architectural monuments. Belgium is simply replete with various masterpieces made of stone. Travelers have the opportunity to visit medieval cities with narrow streets. There they can visit monasteries and ancient castles described by the famous French writer Alexandre Dumas.

The buildings still preserve the memory of the times of wealth of the Walloon counties. Those wishing to have a comfortable time are advised to visit Belgium in late spring or early autumn, when the weather is warm and sunny. Some people prefer to come to the country in September. During this autumn month the number of tourists is significantly reduced.

Tourist Brussels

A map of Belgium with cities can help you plan your travel route. However, it is best to start a conversation about Belgian attractions with Brussels, which is the main city of the country. The capital is not only a political and cultural center, but also acts as a gateway to the main excursion routes.

Brussels is famous for its magnificent architecture and rich history.

The city consists of an upper and lower part. The first of them is distinguished by spacious boulevards and majestic buildings, the second is characterized by an interweaving of cramped medieval streets. Many of these streets lead to the Grand Place, one of Europe's most beautiful squares. Several centuries ago there were swamps here. As a result of their drying, a small market area appeared. The townspeople began construction of the Grand Place in 1402.

Upon arrival in Brussels, guests try to admire the sculptures, in particular, the world-famous fountain-statue “The Manneken Pis”, visit historical museums, and get acquainted with collections of works by Flemish masters of painting. Then visit the Royal Opera House de la Monnaie. In 1700, the theater began to be located on the site of the mint, destroyed by the troops of King Louis XV of France. In 1830, a call for an armed uprising sounded from its stage.

After this, a revolution took place in the country, marking the beginning of Belgian independence.

One cannot miss another attraction, which is a symbol of the city. We are talking about a unique Atomium structure with several cylinders in the form of atoms, as well as escalators, an elevator, a restaurant and an observation deck. The structure, designed by engineer Andre Waterkeyn, symbolizes the knowledge of the atom by the human mind. Next door to it is the world-famous Mini-Europe park of architectural miniatures.

Mini-Europe Park, Brussels, Belgium

You can take a romantic walk through the capital's park with picturesque ponds. Previously, representatives of the royal family hunted here, and today groups of tourists from different countries. Fully enjoying the beauty architectural monuments, tourists do not deny themselves the pleasure of visiting one of the many restaurants and enjoying local cuisine. Naturally, in order to better learn about the history of Brussels, you need to spend a certain amount of time.

Diamond capital of Belgium

The second largest city, as shown detailed map Belgium is Antwerp, the largest port in Europe and one of the world's diamond cutting centers. The city, unlike the capital, cannot boast of an abundance of tourist routes. But there is also something to see here.

Travelers can visit several museums, the opera house, the cathedral and many other sites. Among them is Middelheim Park, an open-air museum. Here you can see the exhibition of modern sculpture. If you go to the natural park-reserve (Fort VII), you can see dozens of rare species of animals and plants.

The city has pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs. They are popular with both locals and visitors. Visitors especially like entertainment venues.

Objects of interest to tourists are located near the railway station and the central square.

Tourist center of the country

In order for travelers to have a more complete impression of Belgium, they need to come to Ghent. This city is the capital of East Flanders. There is a fairly large number of all kinds of old buildings here. To view the monuments, you should visit the city center. Museums are located in its southern part. Those wishing to get acquainted with industrial districts can go to the western suburbs.

The symbol of the city is St. Michael's Bridge, built in the Middle Ages. The overpass connects the banks of the Lys Canal, along which ships ply. Guides invite their clients to visit the Cathedral of St. Bavo, St. Peter's Abbey, the castles of Gerard the Devil and Count Philippe. Those who find themselves in Ghent should definitely see the Great Ardennes Forest.

Here tourists are immersed in a world of pristine nature, where the ruins of ancient monasteries coexist with traces of battles of the 20th century. The country suffered quite a lot during the First World War, during which most of it was occupied. During World War II, the government fled to England, and fascist troops occupied the territory of Belgium. Peace came to this land only in September 1944 with the arrival of troops from the countries of the anti-Hitler coalition. Currently, the luxurious forest thicket, located on the border with Germany and Luxembourg, is the pride of the city residents.

Protection of Nature

Belgium has a fairly high population density, which has a negative impact on the environmental situation. The development of most of the territory has caused significant damage to the natural habitats of many species of animals and plants. Local scientists are especially concerned about the state of the water. Large volumes of chemicals are regularly discharged into rivers and lakes.

However, government intervention made it possible to significantly reduce the influence of industrial enterprises on environment. Officials are assisted by employees of non-governmental organizations. They carry out activities to protect endangered animal species. Belgium is the first country in European Union, which banned the trade in seal meat.

Belgian cuisine

The formation of Belgian cuisine was significantly influenced by French and German traditions, revered in the country. The daily diet of local residents consists of potatoes, seafood, bread and meat (pork, beef, chicken). Beer is considered a traditional drink. Currently, more than 400 varieties of foamy drink are produced in Belgium. This the country is also in large quantities exports wine.

The favorite delicacy of citizens living in the north of Belgium is French fries with mussels and waterseed. The last dish is a stew made from vegetables and meat, common in Flanders. Instead of meat, fish is sometimes added to the broth. French fries are usually eaten with mayonnaise.

Traditional dishes are:

• Liege style pork chops;
• chicken Ghent style;
• country stew with beer;
• mussels marinated in beer;
• fish cutlets in Flemish style.

People all over the world know how delicious Belgian chocolate is. Local waffles have also become widely known.

Useful information for tourists and expats

Since Belgium lies on the border with Germanic and Romanesque Europe, it is divided not only culturally, but also linguistically. The main languages ​​are Dutch and French. The first of them is used by residents of the northern part of the country, the second by citizens living in the south. Common and German. It is spoken in the east of the country. Such linguistic diversity often leads to problems in the political life of the state.

Belgium is a Catholic country, but it has Islam, Protestantism, Judaism and Orthodoxy.

Euros, which is the local currency, can be purchased not only at banks, but also at airports or hotels. But when exchanging money, it is better to seek the help of employees of large banks or post offices. In this case, it is advisable to make the exchange during the daytime. In this case, you will be able to avoid additional costs in the form of increased commissions..

Tourists who want to personally find out where Belgium is on the map and visit the country must have a foreign passport with an open Schengen visa. In addition, you will need an insurance policy and some other documents. It is recommended to carry a foreign passport (or, in extreme cases, a hotel card) with you. You should remember to maintain cleanliness. Violation of this rule will result in a hefty fine.

The best way to travel within the country is by rail, as it is comfortable and reliable. Experienced tourists advise newcomers to definitely go down to the capital’s subway. An extraordinary experience awaits you there from contemplating the numerous works of local sculptors. Each metro station is decorated with real works of art.

There are many buses and trams in Belgium. You can rent a car. Transport rental is available to persons over 21 years of age. Applicants must have an international license confirming at least 1 year of driving experience and a credit card.

Many tourists are attracted by seasonal sales of goods with significant discounts. The stores delight customers twice a year - in January and July. Canned beer, chocolate, and Flemish lace are usually brought as souvenirs from Belgium. A surprise for shopping lovers will be the information that most retail outlets stop working at 18:00. It is not necessary to leave a tip in restaurants, since the service charge is already included in the bill. However, you can reward a waiter who has done his job well with a small sum.

Travelers who want to find out where Belgium is located on the map of Europe are advised to do this in practice. A lot of positive impressions are guaranteed.

Belgium is located in northwestern Europe and borders France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. In the northwest it is washed by the North Sea.

Most of the country is flat, but abundantly dissected by hills and low hilly ridges. Despite its small size, the country's territory is clearly divided into three natural landscape zones: the coastal lowland plain surrounded by dunes and dissected by polders in the northwest, the low central plateau (High Fenn) and the Ardennes Upland in the southeast of the country. Cultivated landscapes predominate. The highest point is Botrange (694 m, Ardennes).

The total area of ​​the country is 30.5 thousand square meters. km.

Little Belgium boasts its varied landscape - in the north there are dune landscapes of the seaside, in the central part there is a green hilly plain, in the south there are the green lowlands of the Ardennes.

The country has three official languages ​​- Flemish (close to Dutch, has several dialects), German and French (distinguished by characteristic local pronunciation and a large number of dialect words).

In many major cities and in resort areas on the coast they speak English almost fluently.

Population in Belgium divided into three major linguistic communities. North of the country - Flanders speaks Dutch, South of Belgium - Vallogne French-speaking

One in ten Belgians is bilingual, and the majority of the population have some knowledge of a second language. About 1% of Belgians are German-speaking, the German community is concentrated in the eastern part of the province of Liege, in 9 communes in Saint-Vith and Eupen.

Brussels is made up of 19 bilingual communes, although the French-speaking population predominates. In the 19th and early 20th centuries. The French-speaking population was in the lead in the life of the country.

Gradually, the Flemings achieved recognition as a separate ethnic community, first on their own lands, and then on a national scale. Flanders received autonomy status.
Most Belgians are Catholics. Although the number of parishioners in Walloon is declining, in Flanders and the Ardennes it remains approximately constant. Protestants live mainly in Brabant and Ghent. The Jewish community is concentrated in Brussels and Antwerp.

Political structure of Belgium

Federal constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king. The legislative body is a bicameral parliament (House of Representatives and Senate), legislative acts are formed jointly by parliament and the monarch.

Administrative division - 3 regions (Flemish, Walloon and Brussels Capital Region) and 10 provinces. Regions have extensive autonomous rights and are governed by local executive bodies authorities (assemblies).

The capital of Belgium is Brussels- at the same time it is the capital of the region with its own government and parliament; the headquarters of the Council of Ministers of the European Community, NATO and other international organizations is located here.

The largest cities are Brussels (970 thousand), Antwerp (480 thousand), Ghent (234 thousand), Liege (201 thousand).

Belgium, located in Western Europe, is a country with characteristic high level life, which is based on political and social stability, linguistic diversity and multinational population.

The combination of these factors, coupled with a highly developed infrastructure, an extensive international communication network, and the presence of qualified consultants with international experience, has contributed to the fact that Belgium has been able to become a major center of international financial activity.

An important aspect of obtaining a residence permit in any country is the legitimacy (legality) of this procedure from the standpoint of the legislation of both the country where the residence permit is obtained and the legislation of the country of which the person seeking to obtain a residence permit is a citizen.

When obtaining a residence permit, an applicant who is the manager of a company may incur additional costs associated with the services of lawyers, accountants, and notaries. State fees and charges amount to 3,000-4,000 Euro.

When opening an account in a number of banks, a deposit is required. Its size can range from an average of 1000 Euros.

Belgium is an ideal travel route for tourists from disadvantaged countries who often come to spend their holidays in Belgium. That is, from countries where a calm, measured, stable life is an unaffordable luxury even for very rich people. In Belgium you forget about the everyday hustle and bustle and stress, troubles, problems.

Most popular among tourists Antwerp. Here you should definitely visit the Rubens House Museum. Gorgeous Antwerp Zoo- one of the best in the world. Antwerp is a port city; a visit to its waterfront is highly recommended.

Holidays in Belgium are like a history lesson. The center of Brussels is similar to the centers of many ancient cities in Western Europe. It has preserved many medieval buildings, such as the Gothic town hall (XV century) and the cathedral (XIII - XV centuries). The famous mannequin statue of the peeing boy also stands here.

Official holidays and weekends in Belgium:

• January 1-2 - New Year.
• March 31-April 1 - Easter.
• May 1-2 - Spring and Labor Festival.
• May 9 - Ascension of the Lord.
• May 19 is Holy Trinity Day.
• May 20 - Spiritual Day.
• July 21 - King's Oath Day, National Remembrance Day.
• August 15 - Exaltation.
• September 27 is a national holiday.
• November 1 - All Saints' Day.
• November 15 is Royal Dynasty Day, a national holiday.
• December 25 - Christmas.

In addition, the country has many beautiful holidays with interesting national traditions, which are celebrated no less widely.

The Belgians are distinguished by their overflowing cheerfulness, innate love of life, sense of humor, as well as stubbornness and persistent reluctance to express their opinions directly to their faces, because fate throughout their history has forced them to be secretive and patient.

Belgium cannot be classified as a resort country, but it also has places to relax in nature. The most famous resort in Belgium is Spa, located in the east of the kingdom, near Liege. In the city, famous for its mineral water springs, in addition to balneological health centers, there is the “Museum of the City of Waters” and a gallery with works of artists depicting local landscapes.

Along the entire coast of the North Sea stretch sandy beaches length of about 70 km with the resorts Knokke, De Haan, Westende, Oostende. The swimming season lasts from mid-June to mid-September.

The most famous resort is Ostend(Oostende), its beaches and dunes are the ideal place to spend a hot day and a romantic evening. In the city aquarium you can see undersea world North Sea. In Ostend you can visit the sailing ship Mercator, on which all historical details have been preserved.

A little west of Ostenede there is another resort Flemish coast- Middelkerk. The northeasternmost town of the coast is a top-class resort - Knokke-Heist. It is known for its special beaches, pine groves, terraces and gardens, as well as golf courses, swimming pools and casinos.

Landscapes and animal world preserved in many nature reserves and national parks: Belcelles, Haut-Fan, Kalmthout, Shevton, St. Hubert and the bird sanctuary on the Zwin coast.

Ardennes offer many places to relax, for example surrounded by rocks with beautiful grottoes Dinant, above which rise the mysterious walls of the citadel. Reserve St. Hubert, where in the square near the Church of St. Gilles you seem to be in the times of the pilgrims. In winter it is a ski resort. In September, here, not far from the abbey, founded in the 7th century, the international Hunter's Day takes place (St. Hubert, patron saint of hunting). The pride of Belgium is the large Ardennes forest on the border with Germany and Luxembourg. In the Ardennes you can find many holiday destinations surrounded by ancient castles and beautiful mountain landscapes.

The country is literally the center of historical monuments and architectural structures, many of which are scattered throughout almost the entire territory of Belgium. Every city in Belgium has ancient cathedrals or fortresses, castles or medieval guild buildings, preserving the memory of the wealth of medieval trading Flanders and the Walloon counties.

Brussels, the capital of ancient Brabant, is the cultural and political center of the country and the European Community. The Belgians call the old part of the city the “Pentagon”, as it is surrounded by circular boulevards built on the site of old defensive structures. Most city tours start from the capital's largest square, the Grand Place (Grotemarkt or Big square), on which the old town hall of the Hotel de Ville is located with the famous weather vane (15th century) depicting St. Michael slaying the dragon. Here is also the Broadhus with the Museum of the City of Brussels and a whole block of ancient buildings, each of which has its own name.

Not far from the Grand Place, on Rue Etuve, there is the famous fountain, the “calling card of the city” - Mannequin Pis (“Pissing Boy”, 17th century) and the Palais des Nations (parliament). To the west of the Grand Place is the Bourse (1873), one of the most prestigious stages in Europe - the Monnet Opera, Place Rogier, the Church of St. Catherine on the square of the same name, surrounded by old houses of the 17th-18th centuries, as well as picturesque, always crowded by the people Central Boulevards. On the site of the old canal, just behind the Church of St. Catherine, there is a wonderful pedestrian area with the delightful Church of John the Baptist (17th century) and two small rectangular ponds surrounded by numerous fish restaurants.

One of the city's most famous historical landmarks is the Royal Galleries of St. Hubert between the Marché aux Herbes and Ecuyer streets. This is the first architectural complex in Europe with covered galleries (1847), today surrounded by dozens of art salons, cafes, restaurants and theaters. No less popular among city guests are the Cathedral of St. Michael (XIII-XVI centuries) and the “Classical Quarter”, on the territory of which there are such famous monuments as Palace Square with the Royal Palace and the Palace of Academies, Royal Square, the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, Coquelberg the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, the Church of St. James and the huge Palace of Justice.

On the small Museum Square, indeed surrounded on all sides by museums, there is the palace of Charles of Lorraine and the famous “Proval” - an illuminated well in which part of the exhibits of the Museum of Modern Art is exhibited. To the south of the Place Royale are the quarters of the Grand and Petit Sablon, where it is worth visiting the Egmont Palace (18th century), the Minim Church (1715) and the beautiful Gothic church of Notre-Dame des Victoires du Sablon (16th century). .

The "Brussels Park" is extremely famous - a former hunting park of the royal dynasty, and today - a classic park in the French style, containing on its territory several picturesque ponds, the Royal Palace, the Palace of Justice, the headquarters of the Brussels Lambert bank, the Parliament complex (1780 g.), Park Theater and many beautiful landscaped areas.

In the south-eastern, business part of the city, the quarter of the Marie-Louise and Ambiorix squares, as well as the Soigne and Cambra forests, are interesting. Thousands of tourists are attracted by the Cambrai Abbey (XIII-XVIII centuries, today the National Geographic Institute and the Cambrai graduate School Fine Arts) in the Ixelles Ponds area, as well as the Cambras Square and the De Poche Theater.

In the north-east of Brussels, interesting are the Botanical Garden (1829), a number of beautiful neoclassical buildings on Rue Meridien and Place Quetelet, the Church of Sainte-Marie (1845), the ancient Malebek covered market (now the city concert hall is located here), the "Turkish area" between Rue Josephate and Rue Philomene, the churches of St. Mary and St. Henri, Park Joseph and many beautiful buildings descending the hill along Rue Eugene Demulder, Boulevard Lambermont and Avenue Houar-Amoire.

The western part of Brussels is famous for the Notre-Dame de Laiken church and the small Laiken cemetery - a real museum of cemetery art, the palace of Leopold II (XVIII century) with the unique Royal Orangeries (XIX century), the Bruparc ensemble, as well as the famous Atomium - enlarged in several million times a model of an iron molecule, around which is the Mini-Europe park (area - 2.5 hectares), where you can see all the famous cathedrals of the Old World - from the Leaning Tower of Pisa to Big Ben. The Oceanadium, a year-round tropical swimming pool, is located nearby.

In Anderlecht The Erasmus Museum of Rotterdam (16th century) on Chapitre Street, Birsel Castle (14th century), the royal castle of Gaasbeek, Astrid Park and the famous Constant Vanden Stock stadium attract attention.

Among the many museums in Brussels, the most interesting are the Royal Museum of Fine Arts with an extensive collection of masterpieces of world art from Rubens to Magritte, the Municipal Museum in the building of the Royal Palace (XVI-XVIII centuries), the Royal Army Museum and military history, the private Automotive Museum in the "Cincentenary Park", the Museum of Classical Art with a magnificent collection of Flemish artists, the Museum of Modern Art, the Instrumental Museum, the Porcelain Museum in the Royal Greenhouses, the Museum of the Belgian Dynasty, the Royal Central African Museum (13 km east of the city) Museum musical instruments(more than 6 thousand exhibits), Cantillon brewery, etc.

Antwerp - main city province of the same name and the second largest port in Europe, as well as the world's largest diamond cutting center. But there are also many cultural and antique monuments concentrated here - the Royal Museum of Art, the Mayer van den Bergh Museum ("Jewelry Museum") - one of the most interesting and rich museums in Antwerp, the Plantin-Moretus Museum, the Brabo Fountain (19th century), the Cathedral Our Lady, the churches of St. James and St. Charles Borromean, the royal castle of Gaasbeek, the oldest building in the city - the Sten fortress (now the Maritime Museum), the church of St. Charles and James, the Museum of Modern Art, the Middelheim Sculpture Museum, Museums of Folk Art and Ethnography, Museum "Dwelling of the Virgins", Museum of Folklore, Museum Vleeshuis (Museum of Archeology and Applied Arts), Opera and Flanders Ballet, Diamond Museum and the famous Antwerp Zoo. Also, thousands of tourists are attracted by the pedestrian street Hoogstraat, the house of the nobleman Rokoks (XVII century), the central square of the Grote Markt, the picturesque embankment and the South Terrace of the Scheldt and Linkerover (the left bank of the Scheldt, built according to the design of Corbusier).

For art lovers, Antwerp is primarily associated with the name of the great Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens lived in Antwerp most of his life. One of the main city shrines of Antwerp is Rubens's house. Rubens' works can be seen in the most famous Antwerp church - the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onse Live Vraukerk) and in many other churches in Antwerp, including the Church of St. Jacob, where the artist is buried.

The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is the city's largest art gallery. It is based on paintings that once belonged to the guild of St. Luke - an association of artists founded in 1442. The Guild dissolved in 1773, after which the paintings by Rubens, Jordanes and other famous Dutch masters of the 16th-17th centuries that were in its possession were transferred to the museum. Part of the collection was taken from Antwerp during the French occupation of 1794-96, but after the fall of Napoleon it returned to the museum.

In 1841, thanks to the invaluable donation of the former burgomaster Florent van Ertborn, the museum’s collection was replenished with paintings by the so-called “Flemish primitivists” - representatives of the “golden age” of Dutch painting by van Eyck, van der Weyden, Hans Memling and works by other ancient masters, including the genius of the Italian Renaissance Antonello da Messina.

The museum also presents Belgian artists of the New Age, including the famous Rene Magritte.

Unlike most art galleries, the rooms of the Royal Museum are distinguished not by numbers, but by letters. Room Q houses paintings by the most revered masters of 15th-century Dutch painting. There you can see two masterpieces by Jan van Eyck and the famous triptych by Rogier van der Weyden “The Seven Sacraments”. In the next room, the visitor will admire the creations of Hans Memling. Another room will delight you with a wonderful collection of paintings by the famous 16th-century Antwerp artist. Quentin Massys (the Belgians call him Metsys), and fans of the magnificent 17th century will undoubtedly spend a lot of time in the halls of Rubens and Van Dyck.

In the Meir district there are many shopping establishments, as well as the ancient Royal Palace (XVIII century), the Borenbond tower - the first skyscraper in Belgium, the Bourse, the churches of St. James (XVII century) and St. Augustine, the beautiful rotunda of the Burla Theater and Schoonmarkt (old shoe market).

In the north of the old town, several old swimming pools and the Church of St. Paul are interesting. The southern quarter is famous for the beautiful Leopold-Waalplats and Marnixplats squares, the esplanade of the Museum of Fine Arts, the Flemish and Walloon embankments, literally bustling with cultural life. There are art galleries here, and the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Photography are located in an old grain warehouse on Levenstraat.

The city has a great variety of restaurants, bars, pubs, nightclubs and other entertainment venues. The “entertainment district” of Central Square and the railway station are especially popular.

On the outskirts of Antwerp, interesting are the modern cultural complex "Singel", the House of Guyette (designed by Corbusier) and the Borgerhout town hall with 47 bells on Morkensplein. There are two castles in Derne, one of which, Sterkhof, houses the Museum of Arts and Crafts, and one of the most beautiful parks in Belgium, famous for its ponds and centuries-old trees. In Middelheim Park there is an open-air museum, where landscape compositions and an entire exhibition of modern sculpture are spread out on a giant lawn. The ancient "Fort VII" (1860) was turned into a natural park-reserve inhabited by dozens of species of local flora and fauna.

City Lear famous for its astronomical clock, the ancient Zimmer Tower and the ring of fortifications from the 16th century. Nearby is the Kalmthout Nature Reserve (861 hectares), which protects a relict landscape of sand dunes ("lands") surrounded by heathland and pine forest.

Ghent, the capital of East Flanders, ranks first in the country for the number of magnificent ancient buildings.

Ghent is a real pearl of Flanders, and indeed of the whole of Belgium, which has carried through the centuries the atmosphere and charm of the Middle Ages. In the center of the city, buildings and streets from the time of the economic prosperity of Flanders have been preserved to this day, to which it owed much to Ghent - this proud and rebellious city. Unlike Bruges, which to this day remains a medieval museum city, Ghent lives and develops. It is the fourth most important city in Belgium (250 thousand inhabitants). It retains its economic importance for Flanders to this day. Thanks to its important seaport and convenient location (in the center of the country), it was Ghent that became the venue for the regular holding of the well-known fair "Flanders Technology" (Flanders Technologies). The city is also home to the Belgian State University.

The heart of the city is the reservoir, from which the Veldstraat street branches off. One of the symbols of the city is also located here - the St. Michael's Bridge, spanning the Lys Canal, as well as the watchtower and Lakenhalle (indoor Cloth Market, 15th century) on the Belforstraat enfilade, as well as the picturesque embankments of Graslei and Korenlei, lined with medieval guild buildings. The oldest quarter of Ghent, preserved almost in its original state, Patershall, is built up with houses from the 16th-11th centuries, which today house restaurants, antique shops and other shopping establishments.

The main attractions of Ghent are the Cathedral of St. Bavo (XII century) with paintings by Van Eyck, the Church of St. Nicholas, the street of ancient houses of Grasley, the University Library Tower (64 m.), St. Peter's Abbey (XVII century) on the slopes " mountains "Blandeinberg, the main square of the city - Vrijdagmarkt ("Friday Market"), the Van der Mers Palace (XVIII century), the Royal Palace on Breidelstraat, surrounded by the magnificent houses of the aristocracy, the Town Hall on Hoogpoort, the old fortified Rabot lock, the castles of Count Philip ( XII century) and Gerard the Devil (XII century), the Church of St. James, the old "beguinage" (nunnery of the Order of the Beguines) of St. Elizabeth around the church of the same name, the Church of St. Michael, Beiloke Abbey (XIV-XVIII centuries, now the Archaeological Museum is located here), the Museum of Modern Art with an extensive collection of "old Flemings" (XV-XVI centuries), a festive hall and the old printing house "Voruit" and the austere building of the Opera on Brabantdam.

Those who like to wander through museums will also find a lot of interesting things here - the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Modern Art, the Folklore Museum in the building of the old Kinderen Alein hospice, as well as the pedestrian street Veldstraat, on which old houses and private mansions of the 18th century. interspersed with fashionable shops, as well as the banks of the Scheldt transformed into magnificent gardens. Very close to the city lie the castles of Laarne (XIII-XVII centuries), Ooidonk (XV-XVI centuries) and Vondelgem, intended to protect Ghent.

Bruges, the main city of West Flanders and famous medieval shopping mall, is a wonderful place to visit.

Thanks to its developed network of canals, Bruges is called the “Venice of the North,” although in reality there is quite little in common between the Italian and Belgian cities. Venice was built on islands in the lagoon of the Adriatic Sea. And Bruges is located deeper inland, at least for now - as scientists believe that sometime in the 5th century BC the coast of Flanders was repeatedly flooded by the North Sea. When the sea receded, it left behind numerous branches through which ships could reach the place where Bruges is located.

In the Middle Ages, during the "Golden Age" of Bruges, the route from the sea to the city was regularly widened and cleared so that large merchant ships could bring their cargo here. But starting from the 12th century, most of the cargo was left in satellite towns - Damme and Sluz, two small medieval towns that exist to this day, where special excursions are organized.

Inside the city, a whole network of canals was created at the base of the Reie River, which allowed merchants to deliver their goods to the huge building of the Water Halls in the main market.

Nowadays excursions are organized along the canals of Bruges on boats that vaguely resemble Venetian galleys. Moreover, the honorable right to conduct these excursions belongs only to four dynasties of carriers, each of which has its own boats.

The richest and most interesting part of the city is located between the station, the Main Square and the market. Interesting are the City Museum of Fine Arts (the famous Groninge Museum) and the Hans Memling Museum in the building of the Sint-Jans hospital, the old market square with buildings of the 13th century and a magnificent 83-meter watchtower (XIII-XV centuries), the large pedestrian Zand square, St. . James, St. Walpurgis, St. Anne, St. Giles and Jerusalem, Gruthuse Palace on Deiver Street, the Gothic ensemble of the Cloth Hall, the ancient city gates of Jeselpoort, Gentpoort and Smedenpoort, the Basilica of the Blood of Christ (15th century) and the Monastery of Angels, the city hall (XIV century), the Palace of Justice (Palace of the Union of Bruges) and the Basilica of Saint-Saens on Burg Square.

The official name of the Groninge Museum is the City Museum of Fine Arts. However, its second name is much more popular - the Groninge Museum, associated not only with the nearby Groninge Straat - Groninge street, but also with the Groninge fields in the Belgian town of Kortrijk (Courtreux), where on July 11, 1302 the Flemish civil uprising completely defeated the brilliant cavalry of the French king. The victory in this battle, which later became known as the “Battle of the Golden Spurs” (700 golden spurs of the French knights were hung as trophies in the Cathedral of Courtrai), is still a source of national pride for the Flemings.

From the 18th century, when the collection of the city museum began to take shape, to the present day, the museum's curators deliberately limit themselves to collecting paintings only by those artists who lived and worked in Bruges. Once the largest Flemish trading city, the residence of the court of the Dukes of Burgundy, Bruges can afford such luxury: in the 15th century, it was there that the artistic center of the Dutch school of painting, which is now called “Flemish primitivists” in the West, turned out to be.

The artists belonging to it are not as well known to Russian art lovers as, for example, the masters of the Italian Renaissance or French classicism, but in their skill and innovation, strict detailing combined with spirituality, this school is incomparable.

Its first and greatest representative is Jan van Eyck (legend attributes to him the invention of oil paints). There are two of his paintings in the Groninge Museum: a portrait of the artist’s wife, Margaretha van Eyck, and the famous “Madonna of Canon van der Paele.” The canon himself, who commissioned the painting, is traditionally depicted in the painting in the venerable company of the Mother of God herself, as well as St. Domitian and St. George.

Every detail in this picture is a true miracle, be it the inlaid floor, the multi-colored velvet carpet at the feet of the Madonna, the chain mail of St. George, where it is not so much the metal itself that is conveyed, but the glare of light on it.

Another great artist of the Dutch school of the 15th century is Hans Memling. In the museum you can see only one of his works - the altar of St. Christopher. But a few tens of meters from the Groninge Museum, in the chapel of the former hospital of St. John, now houses the Memling Museum, which houses six of his works created specifically for the hospital.

Among the masters of the "golden age" of Dutch painting presented in the Groninge Museum, Gerard David and Hugo van der Goes should also be mentioned. But it would be a big mistake to get carried away by big names and neglect the anonymous artists of Bruges of the 15th century - the level of the Dutch school of painting was so high in this era.

The art of the "Flemish primitivists" is without a doubt the most valuable part of the Groninge collection. However, a true connoisseur of painting will not be limited to it and will be rewarded with works of the Baroque and Classical eras, as well as an interesting collection of the Belgian school of the 20th century - both the expressionists of the beginning of the century and the artists of the “Cobra movement” of the second half.

Unique historical heritage sites include the Lace Making Center, the still operating St. Janus Mill (1770), as well as 80 bridges over picturesque canals and more than 2 thousand other attractions of the city.

"Hot city" Liege is the largest and one of the most ancient cities in Wallonia. Here, first of all, you should visit St. Lambert Square, the Palace of the Prince-Bishops, the Museum of Walloon Life and the Museum of Walloon Art, see the Town Hall and the Church of St. James, as well as the ancient symbol of the city's independence - the Perron (a fountain and a column with four lions ), which is located on the Marchais market square.

No less interesting are the Church of St. Antoine, the Baroque Church of the Atonement, the ancient monastery of Frere-Miners with many interesting museums, the Le Temple courtyard and the picturesque Dead Ends, the “Miracle of Liege” - baptismal fonts with biblical stories in the Church of St. Bartholomew (XII century), the Church of St. Servais (XIII century), a large noisy crowd on the Bath embankment, St. Leonard's Bridge with the white and red house of Curtius, the Church of Saint-Denis (XV century), the cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral on Vinav d'Ile Square with the famous statue of the "Virgin of Delcourt" and the oldest Lemonnier passage in Belgium (1839). It is worth visiting Place Isère with the building of the De la Place Theater, the famous Diver Circus in An Lane -Rauture, Pont Frannet, Parc d'Auroy, Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament on the Hill of St. Martin with 12 medallions of Jean Delcourt, Glass Museum (more than 9,000 exhibits), Museum of Religious and Mozan Art, Museum of Arms, Ansembourg Museum, Aquarium and Zoological museum, the Chanchey Puppet Museum and dozens of other historical monuments.

For five centuries, the former capital of the Spanish Netherlands and Beethoven's birthplace, Mechelen (Malines), has been famous for its bells and architecture. Of interest here are one of the oldest buildings in the city - Schepenhuis (1374), Town Hall (XV-XVI centuries), St. Rombout Cathedral, Margaret of Austria's Palace - Palace of Justice (XVI century), Royal Lyceum, Baroque Church of St. Peter , the palace of Margaret of York (now the city theatre), the Church of St. John, which houses the famous triptych by Rubens "The Adoration of the Magi", the Bishopric and Abbey of Saint-Tron, medieval shipyards, the Church of Our Lady of Hanswijk (1663), the Grand Beguinage with its beautiful church of the 17th century, City Museum (Busleiden family museum, 1500), Museum of Toys and Folklore, Museum of Traditional Crafts, etc.

One of the leading tourist centers in Belgium is the town of Waterloo, the site of the famous battle between Napoleon's army and Wellington's troops. All the city's attractions are dedicated to this event - Napoleon's headquarters, the Wellington Museum, Lion's Hill with the Visitor Center, Panorama, the Wax Museum and the Church of St. Joseph. No less interesting are the "city of churches" of Tournai, ancient Mons, medieval Binche, in which now they hold the famous Carnival, the birthplace of the Carolingian dynasty - Charleroi, the capital of Tudinia, the land of ancient abbeys, - Tuen, the oldest city in the country - Tongeren, “which also saw Julius Caesar” Namur, “the tin capital of the country” - Huy, the famous balneological resort of Spa, the first the capital of the Duchy of Brabant is Leuven, the old capital of imperial Flanders is Aalst, the “city of discarded cats” Ypres, the “Texas of Flanders” - Kortrijk and many other equally charming places.

The pride of the country - Great Forest of Ardennes on the border with Germany and Luxembourg, where travelers will find Neptune's grotto half an hour's drive south of Charleroi, the Arabian Nights grotto near La Roche, the rock of the Dinant citadel and many others scenic spots, where, surrounded by almost virgin nature, you can also find ancient monasteries