Belgium

Overview

Located in north-western Europe, Belgium is a small country bordered by The Netherlands, France, Germany, and Luxemburg. There's more to the country than Belgian fries, glass and beer: multicultural and multilingual, Belgium is a veritable Europe in miniature. Belgium reached its zenith under the Duke of Burgundy during the 15th century. However, the country declined in the end-16th century. During the First World War, despite Belgium's neutral policy, the Germans invaded the country in 1914. The Germans attacked it again in 1940 (with the support of the King), this time taking control over the entire country within barely three weeks. After the war, Belgium witnessed an economic boom, which was further boosted by Brussels appointment as the headquarters of both the European Union and NATO. Brussels today is a bustling city of diplomats, followed closely by towering skyscrapers and numerous restaurants. You will see superb examples of art and architecture, both past and present-Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau. The city is also famous for some well-preserved ancient châteaux, colourful fairs and festivals, nature reserves as well as amusement parks-all within easy reach. Due to the country's strategic location, Belgians play host to tourists from all parts of the world. The local people are always friendly, cooperative and courteous. Belgium has three official languages (60% Flemish (Dutch), 39% French, 1% German): in the Northern part people speak Flemish, which is in fact a facet of the Dutch language, in the South region most people...more

History

Belgium became independent from the Netherlands in 1830 and was occupied by Germany during World Wars I and II. It has prospered in the past half century as a modern, technologically advanced European state and member of NATO and the EU. Tensions between the Dutch-speaking Flemings of the north and the French-speaking Walloons of the south have led in recent years to constitutional amendments granting these regions formal recognition and autonomy.