Why is Brussels the capital of Belgium?

Belgium is known as the birthplace of western culture, with over a thousand years of city life, and Brussels is believed to be the unofficial capital of the EU. So why is Brussels the capital of Belgium and what makes it unique?

History of Brussels

Let’s start with some history. For much of its history, Brussels has served as a political and trading center for Belgium and the wider region. Although it was founded in the 12th century, it did not become the official capital of Belgium until 1830, during the Belgian Revolution that resulted in an independent country. This is why Brussels is known as the administrative center, or “Capital”, of the country.

At this time, Brussels was also given the title of “Capital of Europe”, since it was already home to many international organizations such as the European Economic Community (EEC) and the Western European Union (WEU). In fact, many of these organizations eventually merged in 1993 to form what is now known as the European Union.

Nowadays, Brussels is home to a number of iconic institutions such as the European Commission and Council of the European Union, and has become a hub for European legislators and diplomats. This is why it is often refereed to as the “Capital of Europe”, as well as the capital of Belgium.

Benefits of Brussels

Apart from being the home of these international organizations and providing employment opportunities to thousands of people each year, Brussels also serves several other important roles. It provides an ideal location for business growth and development, partly due to its convenient railway and road networks that link it to the rest of Europe. It is also a multicultural city with many different dialects spoken throughout the region, making it attractive to visitors from around the world.

The city also serves as a hub for economic activity in Belgium, since it is home to a number of financial institutions, companies and trade unions that promote economic development throughout the country. Finally, Brussels is a proven university city with many prominent educational institutions located within its limits such as the Free University of Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles and Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

Cultural Events

In addition to its great economic potential, Brussels is also known for its role in culture. Aside from its well-known museums such as the Museum van de Menselijke Ontwikkeling, Sint-Pietersabdij and Musée de la Contre-Révolution Belge, Brussels also hosts many international art exhibitions and festivals. Such events include Art Brussel, BOZAR Arts Center and Passa Porta Literary Festival. All these events contribute to making life in Brussels unique and diverse.

Conclusion – Why Brussels Is The Capital Of Belgium

To conclude, we can say that Brussels is an important economic center in Belgium with its important international organizations, convenient links to other countries within Europe, multicultural atmosphere and thriving cultural life. We can therefore understand why it was selected as the administrative capital of Belgium in 1830, and why it continues to be referred to today as the “Capital of Europe”.

To learn more about Brussels and its historic significance, you can read this article from InTheDiplomaticCorner, which provides an in-depth analysis on the subject.

An Insider’s Guide to Brussels, Belgium

If you are planning to visit Brussels and wondering why it is the capital of Belgium, you will find this guide helpful. Brussels is a vibrant and multicultural city with a rich history, charming architecture, and famous chocolate, waffles, and beer. Here is a comprehensive insider’s guide to the city that will make your trip memorable.

Exploring Local Attractions

Brussels is a bustling city with many attractions to see and visit. Here are some of the top sites to explore:

– Grand Place: This is the most famous square in Brussels, known for its stunning architecture, intricate design, and historical significance.

– Manneken Pis: The famous bronze statue of a urinating little boy is a symbol of the city and draws tourists from all over the world.

– Atomium: This unique structure is a must-see attraction that was built for the 1958 World Exhibition and represents an iron crystal molecule magnified 165 billion times.

– Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: This museum is home to a vast collection of paintings and art pieces from Belgian and international artists, including the works of Rubens and Magritte.

The Best Dining Spots

Belgium is known for its delicious cuisine, and Brussels is no exception. Here are some of the top dining spots to try:

– Chez Leon: This traditional Belgian restaurant is famous for serving the best moules-frites (mussels and fries) in the city.

– Fin de Siècle: This cozy restaurant serves traditional Belgian cuisine with a modern twist and an impressive collection of Belgian beers.

– Comme Chez Soi: This restaurant is a Michelin-starred institution known for its innovative and elegant cuisine.

– Le Pain Quotidien: This bakery serves freshly baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches using organic ingredients.

Immersing Yourself in Local Culture

Brussels is a city with a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the activities and experiences that will help you immerse yourself in the local culture:

– Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center: Belgium has a vibrant comic strip history, and this museum showcases the best of it through exhibitions and workshops.

– Attend a concert at the Ancienne Belgique: This venue is a famous concert hall that has hosted some of the best Belgian and international music acts.

– Go to the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle: This market is a great place to buy antiques, vintage items, and unique souvenirs.

Learning About Local History

Brussels has a long and fascinating history, and there are many places in the city that can help you learn about it. Here are some of the top sights to see and visit:

– Brussels City Museum: This museum tells the story of the city’s history through exhibits and displays, including artifacts from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and 19th century.

– The Royal Palace of Brussels: This beautiful building is open to the public during the summer months and offers a glimpse into the Belgian monarchy’s history.

– The European Parliament: Brussels is often referred to as the capital of Europe because it is the seat of the European Union. Visiting the European Parliament is an excellent way to learn more about the European political system.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

If you want to experience something off the beaten path in Brussels, here are some unique suggestions:

– Explore the Saint-Gilles neighborhood: This area is known for its vibrant street art, bohemian vibe, and trendy cafes.

– Visit the Justice Palace: This imposing building houses the Belgian Court of Cassation and is the most significant courthouse in the world.

– Take a Beer Tasting Tour: Belgium has a rich beer culture, and there are many breweries and tasting rooms in Brussels where you can learn about and taste the best beers.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Brussels is a vibrant city with a lot to offer to tourists. With its rich history, charming architecture, excellent cuisine, and exciting cultural experiences, it is no wonder that it is the capital of Belgium. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or off-the-beaten-path experiences, you will find something to love in Brussels.