Despite its rather small size, Belgium is a real paradise for tourists. It is in Belgium that history and modern world... Strada has a large number of cultural monuments, ancient buildings, new comfortable hotels. The cities of Belgium are sure to present to your attention amazingly delicious cuisine. Some tourists go on a trip to this country with a specific purpose - to enjoy real Belgian chocolate or beer. It is also known that it is here that you can buy such a precious stone as a diamond for a very affordable price... Belgium is often part of the itinerary bus tour in Europe. But if you came here on your own, and you have time to enjoy this country in full, be sure to visit the most beautiful cities of this country.
Brussels - the capital of Belgium
Probably the most beautiful city in Belgium is Brussels. The capital is the real center of the country. It is here that the headquarters of the European Union and the seat of NATO are located. The Brussels Capital Region is formed by the combination of the city itself and Brussels and its 18 communes. Thus, the permanent population is about two million inhabitants. To get around the most beautiful places of the city, even a week of stay here is not enough.
The miniature park of Europe is very popular both among tourists and locals. All the most beautiful places and buildings of the European Union are collected here in miniature. The opening of the park falls on 1989. 350 famous buildings and 80 European cities will be available to your eyes. In the park you can see:
- Eiffel Tower;
- Big Ben;
- Leaning Tower of Pisa;
- Doge's Palace;
- Vesuvius during the eruption;
- Bullfighting in Seville;
- The fall of the wall in Berlin.
There is a sculpture known all over the world - the Atomium - right next to the park. This complex is an exact copy of an atom. Magnified 165 million times. The sculpture was unveiled on the occasion of the World's Fair. It was the Atomium that eclipsed all possible exhibits. The sculpture has many pipes and molecules. Inside the connecting pipes are modern lifts and high-speed elevators that will quickly take the tourist to the top of the structure. The topmost atom of the Atomium serves as a viewing platform from which to open beautiful views to the capital of Belgium.
One of the atoms represents a cozy restaurant, while in the other you can even spend the night, as it is a mini-hotel. The rest serve exhibition halls... It is here that various exhibitions of exhibits are periodically held. Also, at any time you can get to the exhibition, where posters, copies of household appliances and everyday life of the 50-60s are presented. Once here you can plunge into the life of those times.
The beer museum should definitely be mentioned. Here you can not only watch the brewing process, but also taste many of the Belgian beers. Visitors can hear a fascinating story of the guide about new modern technologies for brewing this drink, the secrets of filtration and cooling. The museum is equipped with modern multimedia devices so that every tourist can have their hand in the process of brewing and packaging beer.
The royal palace in Brussels is of extraordinary beauty. It is located in the heart of the Brussels park. Also, do not ignore these places:
- Pissing boy;
- Autoworld of Brussels;
- Red light district;
- Comics Museum in Belgium;
- castle of the counts of Flanders;
- Town hall.
Bruges - the capital of chocolate
Tourists often associate this beautiful city in Belgium with Venice. The small town has cozy streets, ancient architecture, which creates a special romantic atmosphere. The city's river channels and squares are especially beautiful. Bruges is ideal for leisurely walks. Of course, every tourist should taste the real Belgian chocolate here. It was here that pralines were invented about a hundred years ago. At every step you will be trapped by shops and showcases not just with chocolate products, but with real works of art. Every autumn Bruges hosts a chocolate festival called "Choc in Brugge". During this period, craftsmen build sculptures from chocolate, and many chocolate fountains are launched.
If you remember all the most beautiful places in Bruges, then you will definitely remember the famous Lake of Love. By ancient legend this lake was formed because of unhappy love. The girl was in love with a sailor, but they were never destined to be together, since her father was against such an alliance and found a completely different party for her. In desperation, the young woman ran away and, unable to bear the separation from her beloved, said goodbye to life. The sailor, returning from sailing, decided to build a monument for his beloved, at the beginning of the lake bed. A wonderful cozy park is located behind the lake. On the site of the stone that personified the monument, today there is high tower... There are always swans floating on the lake as an avatar eternal love and loyalty.
In this park, you can perfectly relax both physically and soul. There is a bridge across the canal, which is also one of the symbols of the park. Belief says that if couples in love, having climbed this bridge, take an oath of eternal love, they will be able to carry through all the obstacles and hardships in years.
Arrived in this wonderful city of Belgium, be sure to go to the market square. This area has colorful ancient houses that are hard not to appreciate with your eyes. It is here that you can travel back to the Medieval era. In those days, various tournaments and holidays were held on the square. It is also worth mentioning that for a short time the territory market square served as a place for execution. Today the place is famous for the huge watchtower Belfort. It is a symbol of the city and the whole of Belgium, like the Eiffel Tower or the Leaning Tower. Having survived to this day, it is a symbol of the freedom and steadfastness of the Belgian people.
Also, do not forget to see the other most beautiful places in Bruges:
- Belfroy - the bell tower of the city;
- Cloth row;
- Beguinage is a landmark of the city;
- Chocolate Museum;
- House of Arents.
Liège
The city is located on the banks of the two rivers Orth and Meuse, which wishes it one of the most beautiful cities not only Belgium, but all of Europe. The city is quite large in size by the standards of Belgium. Liege is considered a city of gunsmiths and crystal makers. The city is simply full of parks, squares and ancient architecture.
The most beautiful is St. Bartholomew's Square. The buildings here are made in the German-Romanesque style, which is characteristic of this area in the XII century. Ancient architecture successfully intertwined with contemporary art. The modern sculptor Madi Andrien has built a beautiful painting from simple metal sheets. She personifies the superiority of the clergy over the common people.
The coastline of the Urth River is especially popular among residents and tourists in Belgium. It is one of the longest in Europe. Many cities are located on the tributaries of this river, not only Liege. She is calm enough. However, the city authorities built multiple locks to control the rise in water levels in it. The banks are connected by small bridges, which are constantly being reconstructed and completed. Colorful houses are located on the banks of the Urt. Here you can have a great time, relax your soul and collect your thoughts. Locals love to get out here for picnics.
Don't miss out on the wonderful Jeche Castle. Its originality and uniqueness lies in the laying out of stones. The castle walls are a mix of dark gray stones and pure white. Thus, a kind of chessboard is created. During the war, the castle served as a shelter for the children of Belgium. Today all rooms have been completely restored and equipped with all the furniture typical of the Middle Ages. The interior is made in the Gothic style. Once here, the tourist is completely transported to the times of the XIV-XV centuries.
The following attractions also have indescribable beauty:
- Citadel Park;
- Arch bridge;
- Botanical Garden;
- Boulevard Pierco;
- City aquarium.
Antwerp - the diamond city of Belgium
The glory of this city is known all over the world. It is here that a large number of diamonds are mined, which, after being processed, turn into diamonds. The city is considered the center of European design art. Great lovers of unique design delights in clothing and interior items come here. Antwerp is also an insanely beautiful city. But here, you can't just stroll through the streets, looking at your feet. Your gaze will always be directed upward, considering the multiple giant towers, castles and basilicas.
Where will you go first? That's right, to the Antwerp Zoo. The zoo has been operating for over 170 years. This area has become a haven for 770 species of representatives of the animal world. This park amazes not only with its beauty, but also with the fact that the management is interested in the population of endangered animal species.
The city is beautiful not only for the zoo. It is here that the house of the famous painter Paul Rubens is located. He spent most of his life in this house. The same house served as a workshop for him. Today the house has been converted into the Rubens Museum.
Also, do not forget to visit such beautiful places:
- City Hall;
- Wall lock;
- Diamond Museum;
- Art Park;
- River Scheldt;
- Antwerp Olympic Stadium.
Belgium is rich in beautiful cities that captivate tourists with their medieval architecture with cobbled streets. Some names are widely known, others are still to be discovered by many travelers while visiting this country. Belgium is a small country, and there are no big cities comparable in scale to the world's large cities. And, nevertheless, there are at least a dozen charming towns that are worth a tourist to discover.
We present a list of beautiful and interesting cities in Belgium that are worth visiting.
Brussels
Grand Place in Brussels (photo: @kaustubh_ambegaokar)The capital of Belgium, the heart of Europe with the headquarters of many major international organizations, including NATO and the European Union. Its grandiose medieval Grand Place is one of the most beautiful in the world.
The Atomium is the symbol of modern Brussels (photo: @goelrohan) No less impressive for tourists is the huge Atomium, which has the fame of the "Belgian Eiffel tower"- some hate this attraction, others adore it.
Bruges
Bruges - inspiring medieval beauty (photo: @stefanrusie) The center of West Flanders, Bruges is located on the shores of the North Sea, about 25 kilometers from the border with the Netherlands. Bruges is called one of the most atmospheric and picturesque European cities due to its well-preserved examples of medieval architecture and numerous waterways.
Picturesque Bruges (photo: @ kp_25) The city is cut by canals, which is why it is often called the "Venice of the North".
Antwerp
Grote Markt - Antwerp's central square (photo: @ cjcleary62) A beautiful medieval Belgian town on the Scheldt (Esco) river, adjacent to the border with the Netherlands in the north. Antwerp is the largest city in Flanders and the twin city of St. Petersburg.
View of Our Lady of Antwerp Cathedral (photo: @ cjcleary62) Among the many historical monuments architecture in Antwerp, a monument to Peter the Great is erected.
Ghent
Picturesque Ghent (photo: @hoinaru) A city in the northern part of Belgium, about 60 kilometers from Brussels and Antwerp, the capital of East Flanders. Historical sources confirm the existence of a settlement on the site of Ghent as early as the 7th century.
Korenlei embankment in Ghent (photo: @ savvaspitzio) The city has many cathedrals and castles dating from the early Middle Ages, which form the face of the modern city.
Namur
Namur, view of the Meuse River (photo: @zepjbb) The capital of Wallonia, Namur is located on both sides of the Meuse River.
Cityscape of Namur (photo: @ me.rekuc) Along with the walls of a huge medieval fortress, the river, bridges and ancient architecture form the dark charm of the city.
Liège
Liege (photo: @haris__st) Liege can hardly be called a city in Belgium that you must definitely visit, because they are not distinguished by the concentration of interesting sights.
Residential area of \u200b\u200bLiege (photo: @ insta_ph1ll) However, it would be wrong to ignore it, if only because of the Church of St. Bartholomew and Liege Cathedral.
Ostend
Sandy beach Ostend (photo: @ geoffrey_vandereecken1) Major port of Belgium on the North Sea coast.
Fort Napoleon in Ostend (photo: @ reistips.nl) Ostend is known not so much for its architectural landmarks as for its wide sandy beaches, which made it the most famous northern resort in Europe.
Mons
Belfroy Tower at Mons (photo: @cm_mv) Industrial city in the western part of Belgium, 20 minutes from the border with France.
Medieval architecture of Mons (photo: @kamciuuu) In addition to the many industrial enterprises in Mons, the city is not devoid of architectural charm, the face of which is formed by buildings in the Gothic and Baroque style.
Charleroi
Charleroi Town Hall (photo: @trasigor) One of the five largest cities in Belgium is much younger than the rest - it was founded only in 1666. Charleroi does not captivate with its architecture, but it can boast of interesting museums.
Among them are the museum of photography, fine arts, glass, archeology, and the center of scientific culture.
Leuven
Leuven's central square (photo: @isabelledb) Until the 16th century, the old university was considered the best in Europe, which largely influenced the status of the city. Today Leuven is a large university and brewing center in Belgium.
Leuven street (photo: @jyfallon) Since the 18th century, brewing began to develop here, and the famous variety, and then the Stella Artois brand, was born here.
Tour
Central square with fountains in Tournai (photo: @cmcass) City in the west of Belgium, adjacent to the border with France, only half an hour from Lille. Tournai's main attraction is the Romanesque Cathedral of Notre Dame, an episcopal residence and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe.
View of the square with fountains in Tournai (photo: @chloe_oreo) The tour counts the oldest city Belgium: there are references to it in ancient Roman sources.
Kortrijk
The architectural eclecticism of Kortrijk (photo: @julietoulotte) Town historical significancelocated on both sides of the Lis River, 15 minutes from the French border.
Broel Towers in Kortrijk (photo: @ arina2806) The main attraction and symbols of Kortrijk are the massive medieval Broel towers, located on both sides of the bridge over the river.
Dendermonde
Dendermonde Street (photo: @delijn) Even though Dendermonde is less well-known than the top-of-the-list Belgium cities, it has plenty to shine in front of the curious traveler. In addition to churches, abbeys, museums and city markets, there are many interesting objects of urban sculpture.
The main and most beautiful sight of Dendermonde is the 14th century town hall, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Verne
Wörne architecture (photo: @gezgintilkinet) A small but picturesque town in the northwest of Belgium, very close to the French border, 20-30 minutes from Dunkirk.
Wörne central square (photo: @fotonathalie) Verne fascinates with medieval architecture, and its central square makes it related to major cities Belgium, including its capital.
Durbuy
Aerial view of Durbuy (photo: @flo__launay) Durbuy is called the smallest city in the world, but today it is nothing more than a tribute to historical traditions and an attractive slogan for tourists.
Durbuy's landscape ((photo: @mvrbiest) It could be lost on the map of Belgium, and many have never heard of it at all, but Durbuy is worth a walk along its cobbled medieval streets and capture its stunning landscapes.
On geographic map Belgium does not take up much space, but still, this country deserves to be paid attention to. The cultural and political life of this European state can be most accurately described by the word “tolerance”. On its territory, three are recognized at once state languages: German, French and Flemish, there are representations of many religious confessions, they respect the traditions and ethnic beliefs of other peoples.
The capital of Belgium is the center of modern political life throughout Europe. The headquarters of NATO is also located here. However, you must agree that all this information is more interesting for politicians and businessmen. Tourists are attracted here by the variety of museums and architectural monuments, rich cultural heritage, bright carnival lights, Belgian chocolates and good shopping. It is impossible to tell about everything at once. This country is unique, as are its customs and traditions. For example, on New Year's Eve, when Russian children are waiting for Santa Claus, young people in Belgium expect not one, but two to arrive fairytale characters: Pere Noel comes to the French-speaking part of this state, and Saint Nicholas comes to the Walloon part.
And what about the cat festival, which is held in Belgium every three years. Do not confuse it with a banal exhibition of furry pets. A large number of toy cats are thrown from the central bell tower of the city of Ypres onto the crowd of townspeople and tourists. In the Middle Ages, this holiday was somewhat darker. Today it is a good reason to have fun, and according to legend, it is also a good way to get rid of your own sins. In general, you can talk endlessly about the sights of Belgium.
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What to see in Belgium?
The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a short description.
Visiting the Belgian city of Tournai, you will not be able to pass by this magnificent architectural monument. It will amaze you at first sight with the simplicity and elegance of the lines of the Gothic design. The painting that has survived on some of the details of the interior decoration is still a unique example of medieval painting.
The Atomium is not easy architectural structure... On its territory there is a small hotel, a restaurant and an observation deck overlooking beautiful park "Europe in Miniature", numerous exhibitions and a museum dedicated to the life of the 50s. Yes, and, you see, the model of the iron molecule magnified 165 million times is worth seeing with your own eyes.
Brussels has a unique swimming pool Nemo 33. Experienced scuba divers are interested in the largest of the pools. It is designed in the form of a flooded industrial yard. On the lower levels, many artificial caves and artificial reefs. For beginner divers, smaller pools with a depth of 1.3 and 2.5 meters are suitable.
The Menen Gate is a tribute to the memory of the soldiers who died in the First World War. Visually, they resemble an arch. At the top of the composition you will see a plan of the disposition of the troops of that time in the battle for the city of Ypres. This architectural monument is crowned with the figure of a lion. The names of the dead and missing soldiers and officers are carved on the inner slabs of the arch.
This is one of the most beautiful caves in Belgium. You can endlessly admire stalactites, stalagmites, columns, halls and galleries created by nature. You can get to An-sur-Les only with a guided tour. You will be taken by a tourist tram through a picturesque forest and a small river to its entrance.
If you want to fully experience the atmosphere of antiquity and the Middle Ages, be sure to come to Ghent. Each building on its central streets (Grass Street and Zernovaya Street) is an architectural monument. There is also the Church of St. Michael the Archangel and the Church of St. Nicholas.
The Waterloo complex is a must-see for any tourist with a little interest in history. Its creators were able to perfectly convey the spirit of the Napoleonic era. In the wax museum, you can personally see the emperor of France himself, the commanders-in-chief and other important persons of that time.
Believe me, you will not pass by this building. Even if you are not a big fan of surrealism, visiting this museum will not disappoint you. The works of R. Magritte make a rather strong impression on everyone. The talent of this artist is recognized all over the world.
Many people think that train station buildings are the most boring and conservative structures. They've just never been to Antwerp Central Station. This building is its appearance rather resembles an old castle or temple. Exquisite Baroque architecture, columns and stained glass windows wonderfully complement the attributes of modern life (neon signs and advertisements).
In the very center of this town, on the square, there is a bell tower. A narrow spiral staircase will lead you to the observation deck, from where a beautiful panorama of the entire city opens up. Having gone downstairs and settled in the nearest cafe, you can listen to a concert of bell music with pleasure.
This landmark in Brussels needs no introduction. Everyone has heard about her, but maybe you should get to know each other better. First, let it be known to you that he has a name - Julien. In addition, this kid follows fashion and has his own wardrobe, consisting of more than 2000 suits.
Exclusiveness, chic and luxury - all this symbolizes the diamond quarter of Antwerp. Impeccable service, perfect cut of stones and the best examples of jewelry art can be found here. Unique diamonds from South African and Indian mines come here.
This city has its own special charm. Clean streets, old buildings, St. Peter's Cathedral and the Town Hall. Each building impresses with its bright personality and uniqueness of architectural performance. In the Church of St. Peter, canvases by Flemish masters of the 15th century have been preserved, and in the building of the Town Hall you can get acquainted with paintings by Belgian artists.
This picturesque Art Nouveau building in the heart of Brussels is an eye-catcher. One of the world's largest musical instruments museum is located here. Having visited it, you can not only learn about the history of their origin, ethnic roots, but also enjoy the sounds of rare and ancient musical instruments.
Getting into this castle, you immediately remember the era of knights and crusades. Cobblestone streets, monumental walls, narrow loopholes of towers and a protective moat. Gravensten is a vivid example of medieval architecture; the museum located here will give you a complete picture of the life of the people of that era.
Gothic architecture prevails in the entire external appearance of the city and its historical part is no exception. Houses with graceful turrets and narrow windows, an old town hall and a temple are located in one of the main squares of the city - Burg. The second central square of the historic center of Markt is occupied by shopping arcades.
This is the historic center of Brussels. Guild House, Brussels City Hall, King's House (Bread House), the well-known statue of Manneken Pis are located right here. When you get to the Grand Place, you get the impression that you are in a magical fairy kingdom.
This castle was built in the 12th century. Then it had an important defensive value, today it is one of the main attractions of Antwerp. This architectural monument is undoubtedly interesting in itself, but, moreover, on its territory there is a maritime museum and an archeology museum.
White swans have always been a symbol of love and loyalty. In the Brussels town of Bruges, there is a whole lake where these amazing snow-white birds live and feel comfortable. The beauty of nature, silence and tranquility attract here not only couples in love, but also simply connoisseurs of beauty.
In the southern part of Belgium, on the outskirts of Brussels, there is a fairly large forest park. Hikers and hikers will appreciate the opportunity to feel the unity with nature, enjoy peace and quiet, admire the colorful landscapes and forest lakes.
Belgium is an incredibly beautiful and small country located in the northwest of Europe. Despite the small size of Belgium, there are many interesting placeswhich every tourist should visit.
Belgian cities will offer you a huge number of wonderful museums, beautiful parks, interesting architectural buildings and historical monuments, which is why we have prepared for you a list of five Belgian cities that are worth visiting at least once in your life.
1. Bruges
The beautiful city of Bruges is considered the most popular city Belgium, and its historic center is one of the most famous sites world heritage center of UNESCO. Medieval town Bruges is often called the Venice of the North, because in addition to beautiful parks and traditional medieval buildings, there are also picturesque water canals. Most of the city streets are covered with cobblestones, which gives this city even more medieval charm. While in Bruges, be sure to stroll to the market square, Belfort Tower and Our Lady's Church, and then stop by Minnewater Park, where you can see swans in the lake.
2. Brussels
The second popular belgian city is Brussels, which, as the capital of Belgium, is considered one of the main tourist centers countries. Brussels is located in the heart of Europe and it ideally combines historical sights, the noise of the capital city and the charm of a medieval town. The most famous monument in Brussels is the bronze statue of a pissing boy, about historical origin which there are numerous legends. The beautiful medieval Grand Place and cathedral Saints Michael and Gudula.
3. Antwerp
Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium and is world renowned for its vibrant nightlife, many restaurants and bars, as well as numerous festivals that take place in the city throughout the year. Antwerp is also often called the city of diamonds and fashion, because it is here that the world diamond center is located, but if shopping is not your thing, then you will definitely like the beautiful medieval center of Antwerp, where there are many historical and modern architectural attractions, but walking around the city , you will notice traces of Rubens everywhere, because it was here that he lived last years this famous artist.
4. Ghent
The flower capital of Belgium, the amazing city of Ghent, is a favorite city of the Belgians themselves. This modest, absolutely not tourist town crowded with many cafes and elegant restaurants, but besides going to the many establishments, Belgians come here for walking along the pedestrian the historic center and for visiting local opera house... The city has 100 churches, more than 400 historical buildings, as many as 18 museums and a real count's castle, which offers a panoramic view of Ghent.
5. Spa
The Belgian town of Spa has long become a world-famous pearl of the Ardennes and, having given its name to all the world resorts with healing water, it still remains one of the best spa resorts in the world, because the local hot springs and healing and relaxing treatments are incomparable. The healing properties of local waters were discovered in the 14th century, but the city of Spa became an international resort center only in the 18th century. In addition to visiting local springs, it is also worth coming here in order to admire beautiful naturebecause Spa is located in a green valley surrounded by forests and hills, along which numerous streams and rivers flow.
Read more about Belgium in the article “The most interesting Belgian sights”.
"The only thing that the Belgians ... cannot bear to bear is when they are asked if they are French." (Anthony Mason, These Strange Belgians). Packing our suitcases into the Belgian kingdom, we found four of its main faces on the map - Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent. Each has its own fairy tale, each is a special attraction. To see her is to collect a mosaic of an extraordinary land.
Antwerp - the city of the man Brabo
They began to view the sights of Belgium from Antwerp, landing from the bus at five in the morning. The city was still asleep. In a small eatery asked for tea ("tea"). The barmaid took a long time to figure out my English. “Tuborg?” She asked sleepily, accustomed to her clients' beer habits. This is how the acquaintance with Belgium started symbolically. Then we did not know that beer in the Belgian lands is a national hobby, 900 varieties of it are produced! In the USSR, I remember, there were two beers: “there is beer” and “there is no beer”.
We quickly noticed the tower towering over the city. Wherever you are in Antwerp, you will see it. The tower is medieval, 123 meters high and belongs to cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp - the patroness of the city. The temple of the XIV-XVI centuries is stunningly beautiful - and the facade, and the altar, and four canvases by Peter Rubens himself, which, alas, cannot be photographed.
Rubens was seen everywhere in Antwerp - in churches, in museums, in a monument. The house in which he lived was turned into a museum, attacked by numerous admirers. True, there are not many valuable exhibits here; most of them scattered across the best museums the world. Nevertheless, as one friend of mine Rubens' fan says, "if you were in Antwerp and did not go to the Rubens Museum, then either you were just passing through, or art is for you." I had to go in. I was especially impressed by the master's self-portrait. Somehow I imagined him differently.
Did not pass by main square - Grote Markt.For centuries, they traded, executed and pardoned on it. The 16th century town hall, decorated with statues, heraldry and frescoes, looks like a smartly dressed woman. It is a pity that it is not always available for tourists. And in the middle of the square is a man with someone's severed hand. Fountain statue. They began to wonder: who is this? They resorted to the help of the local population. A girl in torn tights (this is the norm here) told us a wonderful legend. The man's name is Sylvius Brabo, he saved the city from a malevolent giant who lived in a castle on the banks of the local Scheldt River and collected an exorbitant tribute from sailing ships. Almost like our customs. Those who did not want to pay lost their hands. Once the Roman soldier Brabo was brought to this region. He refused to give tribute, cut off the villain's hand and threw it into the river. So from words "Ant" (hand) and "Verpine" (throw) the name of the city was born.
We left Antwerp by train from the Central Station. A very colorful building. If it weren't for the trains rushing back and forth, I would have thought it was a palace. By the way, trains are convenient for "Belgian" travel. They are comfortable and run like a Swiss watch. And the distances between cities are small. For a trip from Antwerp to Brussels, 40 minutes is enough.
Brussels with chocolate flavor
They wandered around the EU capital with a bar of Belgian chocolate. Local pharmacists in the nineteenth century cheated on cough suppressants so much that they "coughed" before the invention of dark chocolate. And later to the famous "praline". Today the glory of the brands "Neuhaus", "Godiva" and others is thundering across the planet. They are made from the finest cocoa beans, often by hand, and the subtleties of production "this is a great secret."
Even if the whole of Brussels consisted of only one grant Place, it would still be a must-see. In the magnificent 15th century Town Hall, the municipality is still in session, you can get inside only on Tuesdays-Wednesdays, with a guided tour. The interior of the halls turned out to be very elegant - paintings, sculptures. Only there are a lot of tourists - masterpieces are overshadowed. "Looks" at the Town Hall King's house... Built in the XIII century, then rebuilt for several centuries. Never a single king has lived in it, and the name is just a grimace of history. Today the Museum of the City is here. The Brussels past has passed before us, the layout with a view of the city in the 13th century is especially memorable. The magnificent houses of professional guilds from the 17th century organically complement the picture of the square. In the evenings, lavishly illuminated by lighting, the Grant Place is especially charming. An elderly Brussels man, who showed us the way, said that there is no more beautiful area in the world. Perhaps I agree with him.
Near Grant Place is the legendary . According to legend, in such a simple way, he extinguished the fuse lit by the enemies during the war and saved the city from fire. We almost "screwed up" the "boy". He himself is small, about the size of a baby. But the crowd of tourists eternally surrounding him is large. The crowd recognized him. By the way, he changes his outfits several times a week and this is a colorful ceremony. It's hard to "take a picture" in an embrace with a "boy": someone is constantly looming in the frame.
On the map we came across a grandiose Royal Palace ... But ... it was closed to the public. I had to admire its shining crystal chandeliers only in the photographs of the guide. But they visited the majestic Cathedral of St. Michael, built in the XIII-XVI centuries. in a combination of different styles. I was amazed by the magnificent internal ensemble of the temple: a magnificent altar, statues of the apostles, windows with very bright stained-glass windows.
If you take tram number 81 and get off at the Heisel terminal, then you will see a construction of 102 meters - "Atomium"... This is a model of an iron molecule, magnified billions of times and symbolic for the capital no less than Brussels sprouts. In the top ball - observation deck and Brussels at a glance. And next to the "molecule" there is a funny park "Mini-Europe", which turned popular European buildings into miniatures.
Time was canceled in Bruges
Coming to Bruges is to travel back to the Middle Ages. The hectic XXI century does not seem to affect this territory of bygone eras. In the Middle Ages the city flourished, in the XIV-XV centuries. was the richest shopping center Northern Europe... But the conjuncture - a changeable lady - changed and Bruges seemed to fall asleep for 400 years. Awakened at the end of the 19th century and became an open-air museum.
We met lovely houses built in the 15th century, charming turrets and spiers. Picturesque canals evoke memories of Venice. And the Flemish windmills seem to have descended from the paintings of Jan Brueghel the Elder. But, having examined the city center no worse than the Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, they did not find a single typical high-rise building. There are few cars, but carriages are pacing along the cobblestones. Contemporary street sculpture did not inspire ... does not fit into cityscapes.
In the center we wandered into Market square. Have you watched the movie "Lay Down in Bruges"? This is where the heroes of Gleason and Farrell walked. We climbed 366 steps to the patrol belfort tower... Its chimes with the melodic chime of bells once called the townspeople to a nationwide gathering. Co observation deck a wonderful panorama of the city opened. Next door is a market dating back to the Middle Ages.
As beautiful as Belgian tapestries burg square I was impressed by the splendor of the architectural forms and the mixture of styles. The exquisite facade of the 15th century town hall pleased the eye, the architecture of the Basilica of the Holy Blood of Christ was insanely beautiful. In the Church of Our Lady, built for almost 200 years in the XII-XIV centuries, they hurried to the "Madonna and Child" by Michelangelo. The city is especially amazing in the evening and at night.
Ghent from boat
Ghent is no less interesting than Bruges. Today it is a small, cozy town, but in the XIII-XV centuries. was second in Western Europe by size. After Paris. They say that Ghent is best felt ... in a boat. We decided to check it out and went on an unusual walk along the city canals. We didn’t regret it. Floated beside those reflected in the water old houses and got a lot of impressions.
Like Bruges and Antwerp, Ghent is also ideal for the promenade. The center without a car, the streets are full of flower beds, the air is filled with the aroma of waffles, and at every step, as if from a magician's hat, interesting monuments appeared. Especially struck Cathedral of St. Bavoits famous Ghent altar of the 15th century - the work of the Van Eyck brothers.
On the narrow streets of the old Patershol district, looking at the pretty brick houses, we got a little lost. If you get lost here too, locals willingly come to the rescue. If you don't scold the Belgian king or confuse the Belgians with the French.
From medieval castle Gravenstenit seems that some ... musketeers from Dumas are about to come out. At first it was the residence of the Counts of Flanders, later a court and prison, and now - a museum of justice with instruments of torture and cameras. But tourists are not tortured. Checked out.
A little tired, we looked into a cafe. At the entrance he let a young woman go ahead. She thanked her, but her face showed amazement. Local etiquette does not provide for this.
Belgium can be called a country for gourmet tourist cuisine. An inquisitive tourist is like an intelligent child: he tries to embrace the immensity, worries if something interesting passes by. Belgium, with its old quiet streets and doll houses, looks like a child's favorite toy. You want to play with her often, and when you don't see her for a long time, you start to miss her ...
