BELGIUM - BRUSSELS

BELGIUM

Capital: Brussels
Geographical size: 30 528 km²

Population: 11 203 992 (2014)

Official EU language(s): Dutch, French and German

Political system: federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy

EU member state since: 1 January 1958

Seats in the European Parliament: 21

Currency: Euro.

BRUSSELS

Is the capital city of Belgium. The region has a population of 1.2 million and a metropolitan area with a population of over 1.8 million, the largest in Belgium

PLACES TO VISIT

• Manneken-Pis – ‘Pissing Boy: is a major character in the folklore of Brussels. He is probably Brussels’ most photographed statue, yet it is only 60cm high. He was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy and is a small fountain piece where the water emerges from a tiny metal penis that the boys points at the viewer. 

• Heysel Park and the Atomium: Heysel park, located in the west of Brussels, is dedicated to recreation and leisure. One of the highlights of the park is the Atomium. This is a 102 metre model of an atom made out of chrome and steel designed by André Waterkeyn. To really appreciate this structure, take time to gaze up and enjoy the sculpture.  It wants to symbolise a new ‘atomic age’.

• Mini-Europe: Next door to the Atomium is a 25 hectare  park of several amusements and attractions. This includes a cinema  called Kinepolis, an all-round Imax screen, a planetarium and a water park called L’Oceade and different restaurants in ‘The Village’.

MUSEUMS

• City Museum – Maison du Roi (French): This museum is dedicated to the history of Brussels, and if you have already seen the Manneken-Pis, in here you can take a look at his costumes. The history of Brussels is told, from the Middle Ages to date.

• Royal Museums of Fine Arts – Musées Royaux des Beaux Arts: This is, in fact, two museums. The Museum of Ancient Art founded by Napoleon and  it displays the great works of Flanders. The other is the Museum of Modern Art. This was added in 1984 and comprises eight floors. Between them, they offer over 600 years of  art comprising paintings, sculptures and drawings.

WHAT TO EAT

• Waterzooi: A creamy fish stew using eggs and butter.   Charles V (the Holy Roman Emperor) used to say that Waterzooi was his favourite dish.Today, it's more usual to be made with chicken than fish.

Speculoos:  Yes, Belgium has an (unofficial) national cookie. Spiced shortbreads  ice cream or gelato.  Originally baked to celebrate St. Nicholas Day (December 6), you'll now find them year-round.