Belgium; Getting to know the country of chocolate and its eye-catching attractions

Belgium is one of the smallest yet most populous European countries. The country initially had a unitary government, and in the 1980s and 1990s, it became a federal state with shared powers between the regions of Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia. You will read everything you need to know about Belgium in this article. Stay with us.

Introducing Belgium

1. geographical location

Do you know where Belgium is? Belgium, with an area of ​​30,689 square kilometers, is located in the northwest of Europe. This European country has a total of 860 miles (1385 km) of land borders with its neighbors and is bordered by the Netherlands to the north, Germany to the east, Luxembourg to the southeast, and France to the south. The country is a vast coastal plain that stretches southeast from the North Sea and the Netherlands, gradually leading to the hills and forests of the Ardennes, where its maximum elevation is 2,277 feet (694 m). According to the last census, the population of Belgium is about 11 million people and is equivalent to 0.15% of the total world population.

2. weather

Belgium has a temperate climate that is usually influenced by the air masses of the Atlantic Ocean. The rapid and frequent rotation of different air masses has caused a significant climate variation in this region of Europe. This country has relatively cool summers and wet and mild winters with frequent fogs. Wind blowing, extensive cloud cover and intermittent rains are the dominant phenomena in this region of Europe. The average annual temperature in this country is about 10 degrees Celsius.

3. Economy

The Belgian economy is tied to the European economy. The country is a member of many transnational organizations, including the Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union (BLEU), the Benelux Economic Union and the European Union. The unique geographical location and advanced transportation facilities have made this country have an acceptable economic convergence with neighboring countries. Most of Belgium's economic and trade relations are with EU members and America. Germany, France, Holland, America, England, Italy and Spain are the main trading partners of this country. Belgium imports machinery, chemicals, food products, diamonds, crude oil and petrochemical products, and its export products include:

• Food products;
• polished diamond;
• iron and steel;
• car;
• textiles;
• petroleum products;
• Non-ferrous metals.

4. agriculture

A small percentage of the active population of Belgium is engaged in agriculture and this activity is decreasing. About a quarter of the area of ​​this country is dedicated to agriculture and under permanent cultivation. The agricultural products of this region include sugar beet, chicory, flax, cereals and potatoes. The cultivation of fruits, vegetables and ornamental plants is also booming in this country (especially in Flanders).

5. Language and religion

Belgium does not have a single language and the language of the people of each region is different from another. Dutch, French and German are the 3 common languages ​​of the residents of Belgium. Dutch is the official language of the Flemish region, Dutch and French are the official languages ​​of the Brussels region, and German and French are the official languages ​​of the Walloon region. Some residents also speak Luxembourgish and English. Only two thirds of the people living in this country are religious and most of these people are Catholic.

6. Culture and customs

Belgium consists of 3 regions of Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia, dividing the country into three regions has made Belgium not have a unified culture. In general, Belgians are disciplined and hardworking people who care a lot about their family life. The residents of this region adhere to their traditions and celebrate their occasions by performing various and attractive carnivals. Many of the carnivals of this region are registered in UNESCO. The premier football league of this country is also the most prestigious league in Belgium, which has been held in this country since 1895.

Belgium tourist attractions

1. Brussels city

As the capital of Belgium and one of the largest centers of museums, palaces, churches and grand mansions, Brussels is one of the most popular places to visit in Belgium. Also, this city is the administrative capital of the European Union and attracts many tourists from different parts of the world. The presence of various cafes, restaurants and shopping centers in Brussels will make your European vacation very attractive and exciting. The attractions that you can visit in Brussels are:

• Herge Museum;
• mannequin piece;
• Atomium building;
• Royal Palace of Brussels;
• Mini Europe miniature park.

2. The city of Bruges

The beautiful medieval city of Bruges is one of the most stunning places to visit in Belgium. The historical buildings, palaces, churches and beautiful mansions of Bruges are a reflection of the Viking history. Do not neglect the pleasure of eating Belgian hot chocolate in the cozy cafes of this city, cycling and boating. Without a doubt, Bruges is the best city to stay in Belgium. The Great Market Square, the Belfry and the Grotius Palace are the most famous tourist attractions in Bruges.

3. The city of Ghent

The city of Ghent (or Ghent) is another famous attraction in Belgium. By traveling to this beautiful and peaceful city, you can visit historical places, medieval structures and famous churches. Although Ghent is considered a suitable destination for art lovers and history buffs, the tranquility and charm of this beautiful city attracts every type of traveler. The combination of historical attractions and relaxed atmosphere of Ghent has made this city one of the most unique places to visit in Belgium. The most famous attractions of the beautiful city of Ghent are:

• Gravenstein Castle;
• Ghent bell tower;
• Saint Nicholas Church;
• Cathedral of Saint Bavo.

4. The city of Antwerp

If you want to get to know the culture, art and tradition of Belgians, be sure to visit Antwerp, Belgium. Antwerp is one of the European metropolises and the most populated city in Belgium. By traveling to this city, you can enjoy seeing the wonders of old architecture and visit modern art galleries and museums. Antwerp is also called the diamond capital of the world, because more than 70% of the world's uncut diamonds are bought and sold in this city. The most famous attractions of this beautiful city are:

• Endstrom Museum;
• Rubenshuis Museum;
• Antwerp Zoo;
• Plantin Muertos Museum.

5. Arden cottage area

This villa area is one of the most popular tourist attractions among adventure lovers. If you like hiking, biking and camping in nature, spend a few hours in this beautiful area during your trip to Belgium. This beautiful natural attraction includes rocks, caves and dense forests. Bouillon Castle is one of the most famous attractions in the Ardennes region.

6. The city of Dinant

Dinant is another tourist city in Belgium, which is located on the banks of the Meuse River in the province of Namur and 65 kilometers from Brussels. Famous natural caves and the best national parks of Belgium are located in this city. The attractions of this beautiful city are:

• Dinant citadel;
• Citadel Tower;
• Valzin Castle;
• Meuse River;
• Paul Charles de Gaulle;
• Notre Dame Cathedral.

7. The city of Leuven

Leuven is the capital of the Belgian province of Bryant-Flanders, home to many famous street pubs, cafes, churches and galleries. The oldest Catholic university in the world is located in this city. The city hall of Leuven, Belgium is one of the most beautiful and famous city halls in the world. The attractions of this city are:

• bell tower;
• St. Peter's Church;
• university library;
• Croydtwin Botanical Garden.

8. The coastal city of Dihan

This beautiful coastal city is located in the north of Belgium. The city's 11-kilometer coastline is home to fantastic restaurants, stylish cafes and some of the best accommodation in Belgium. Another delightful part of this beautiful beach is its beautiful streets that come alive for romantic walks, making this town one of the most romantic places to visit in Belgium.

9. The city of Mons

This beautiful city, which is located in the province of Hainaut, Belgium, is a reminder of peace and tranquility. A large cobbled square, a magnificent palace and an old town hall await tourists who decide to visit the city of Mons. One of the things that fascinates every traveler in this city is the sound of the magnificent belfry bells that are placed on top of the 80-meter tower. The city of Mons is one of the best tourist places in Belgium.

10. Dorbi village

The village of Zeya Dorbe, which is surrounded by a quiet valley with lush forests, is another tourist attraction in Belgium. The old mood, the rural cobbled paths and the cottages covered with all kinds of beautiful flowers attract every tourist. The people of this village are very friendly with tourists and welcome them well. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this beautiful village is an ideal place to relax. By staying in this village, you can visit the handicrafts of the local people and taste the hearty taste of their local food.

final word

It doesn't matter if you plan to travel to Belgium for a few days or a long stay; This country is an amazing destination to travel. The combination of the sea and the forest has caused the unique beauty of this area and created amazing natural attractions.

Have you ever traveled to Belgium? What other attractions would you add to our list? Please share your valuable comments and experiences with us and our dear users.