Belgium is a country in Western Europe, that is well known for its medieval cities, Renaissance architecture and as the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. The country has distinct regions, including Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north, French-speaking Wallonia in the south and a German-speaking community in the east. The bilingual capital of Brussels offers splendid guild halls in the Grand Place and elegant Art Nouveau buildings.
Belgium has a population of approximately 11.3 million.
It was a Belgian, the priest and physicist Georges Lemaitre, who first came up with what is now called the Big Bang theory of the origin of the universe in 1927.
The government of Belgium is a Federal Parliamentary Democracy under a Constitutional Monarchy with both a king and a prime minister.
Belgian men are the second tallest in the world with a height of 181.7cm, only Dutchmen are taller at 182.5cm.
Belgium is officially known as the Kingdom of Belgium.
The Signal de Botrange on the High Fens plateau in far-east Belgium is the highest point at 694m, shorter than the world’s tallest building in Dubai, the Burj Khalifa at 828m.
Brussels is both the capital city and the largest city in Belgium.
Belgium introduced same-sex marriage in 2003, after the Netherlands.
The Flemish make up about 60% of the population.
Euthanasia was legalized in Belgium in 2002.
Approximately 75% of Belgium’s French speakers reside in Wallonia. However, French-speaking inhabitants of Brussels usually do not consider themselves Walloons.
The Law Courts of Brussels is the world’s largest court of justice with a construction area of some 26,000sqm, it is bigger than St Peter’s Basilica in Rome by 5,000sqm.
The people of Brussels are known in French as Bruxellois and in Dutch as Brusselaars.
Belgium’s tax revenue is among the highest in Europe representing around 48 percent of the country’s GDP.
The national flag is black, yellow, and red in three vertical stripes.
The longest tram line in the world is the Kusttram which travels the full 68km of Belgian coast between the French and Dutch borders, making some 68 stops from Knokke-Heist to De Panne and running every 10 minutes during summer peak hours.
The largest and dominant religion in Belgium is the Roman Catholic. Over half the population identifies with this religion.
Belgium is also one of the most cabled countries in the world, where some 97 percent of Belgian households receive cable TV.
Ranking 25th in the world, Belgium’s nominal GDP is estimated at USD 512 billion, and it’s nominal per capita GDP USD 50,510 for 2018.
Belgium is among the top 10 countries for the highest road and railroad density.
Over 97% of Belgians live in urban areas giving it one of the most highly densely populated countries in the world.
Belgian Luc Luycx’s design was the chosen winner of a European Union design competition.
It is among the highest in Western Europe when it comes to homeownership. Government-guaranteed mortgage loans encourage people to construct new homes.
Belgium has the most cycling Tour de France victories of any country except France.
In addition to being well known got their famous waffles, Belgium is also known for a very different kind of snack called moules frites which are mussels served with french fries.
Belgium has more castles per kilometer than any other country in the world.
Belgium-born Adolphe Sax invented the world-famous jazz instrument, the saxophone.
The first evidence of chocolate production in Belgium dates back to 1635. Today Belgium produces over 173,000 tons of the stuff a year, and has an estimated 2,000 chocolate shops.
Antwerp, a Flemish city in Belgium, hosted the first ever World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in 1903.
The Flemish jeweller Lodewyk van Bercken is credited to inventing the first pear cut diamond and the polishing wheel (scaif), which uses diamond dust to cut diamonds to achieve greater precision and more complex cuts. His statue can be seen near Antwerp’s diamond district.
The Belgian Draft Horse originated from Belgium. The world’s tallest living horse is a Belgian Draft Horse named Jake who stands at 20 hands 2.75 inches without horseshoes.
Nearly 80 percent of the world’s billiard balls are made in Belgium.
Belgian Pierre Culliford, who wrote under the pseudonym Peyo, created The Smurfs (Les Schtroumpfs in French) and they debuted in a comic he created called ‘Johan et Prilouit’ back in 1958.
Belgium FAQs:
Belgium, a fascinating country in Western Europe, is known for its delicious chocolates, historical cities, and unique cultural tapestry. Here are some of the most common questions people search about Belgium, answered in detail:
1. What are the languages spoken in Belgium?
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (spoken by the majority in Flanders, the northern region), French (dominant in Wallonia, the southern region), and German (a smaller population speaks this in the eastern part). The capital, Brussels, is officially bilingual with Dutch and French spoken widely. English is also spoken to some extent, particularly in tourist areas.
2. What is the currency of Belgium?
The official currency of Belgium is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially major brands like Visa and Mastercard. ATMs are readily available in most cities and towns.
3. Do I need a visa to travel to Belgium?
For stays less than 90 days, citizens of many countries, including the United States and Canada, do not require a visa to enter Belgium. It’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel.
4. What is the best time to visit Belgium?
Belgium enjoys a temperate maritime climate. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures with less rain, making them ideal for exploring cities and outdoor activities. Summer (June-August) can be warm and crowded, especially in popular tourist destinations. Winters (November-March) are generally mild but can be wet and cold.
5. What are some must-see attractions in Belgium?
Belgium boasts a wealth of historical sites, charming towns, and cultural attractions. Here are a few highlights:
- Brussels: The capital city, famous for its Grand Place, Manneken Pis statue, and European Union headquarters.
- Bruges: A medieval fairytale town known for its canals, chocolate shops, and Belfry tower.
- Ghent: A vibrant city with a stunning castle, historical center, and lively student atmosphere.
- Antwerp: A major port city renowned for its diamond trade, art scene, and Rubens House museum.
- The Ardennes: A hilly region with charming villages, forests, and medieval castles.
6. What kind of food is Belgium famous for?
Belgian cuisine is a delightful blend of French and Dutch influences. Must-try dishes include:
- Waffles: Sweet or savory, a popular street food enjoyed with various toppings.
- Mussels with fries: A national dish, typically served in a large pot with a variety of sauces.
- Chocolate: Belgium is a chocolate paradise, with renowned chocolatiers offering a vast selection of pralines, truffles, and other treats.
- Frites (French fries): A Belgian staple, often double-fried for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
- Stews: Hearty and flavorful stews like Carbonade Flamande (beef stew) are a winter favorite.
7. What is the culture like in Belgium?
Belgian culture is a fascinating mix of Flemish and French influences. Belgians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. The country is also known for its rich artistic heritage, with renowned painters like Bruegel and Van Eyck.
8. How do I get around Belgium?
Belgium has a well-developed transportation system. Trains are a convenient and efficient way to travel between major cities. Buses and trams are also readily available in most towns. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation, and many cities offer excellent cycling infrastructure. Taxis are available but can be expensive.
9. Is Belgium safe to visit?
Belgium is generally a safe country for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
10. What are some interesting facts about Belgium?
- Belgium is a small country but boasts the highest number of castles per capita in the world.
- The European Union was founded in Brussels.
- Belgium is the birthplace of the saxophone.
- Beer is a national beverage, with hundreds of local breweries producing unique varieties.
- Belgium has a long tradition of comic strips, with characters like Tintin achieving global recognition.
I hope this comprehensive FAQ helps you plan your trip to Belgium or simply learn more about this fascinating country!
