The Interesting & Fun Facts about Belgium

Belgium is a little but mighty nation in North-western Europe with a diverse population and a wealth of history. Belgium for all its small size has been a major player in European history and remains a crucial component of the political and cultural landscape of the continent. Belgium offers a distinctive fusion of modern art, active urban life and medieval architecture. It is well-known for its picturesque cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges. With a population of approximately 11.7 million, it is divided into three separate regions: the Brussels-Capital Region which is the center of the European Union Wallonia in the south and Flanders in the north. This federal constitutional monarchy, with a diverse population of many languages and cultures has an intricate yet intriguing political structure.

In addition to its stunning scenery and ancient cities, Belgium is well-known for its fascinating cultural oddities and interesting trivia. For example did you know that globally Belgium has the highest density of castles per square kilometre? Or that it makes more than a thousand different types of beer each with a distinct flavour and history? Belgium offers a wealth of fascinating information just waiting to be discovered, from being the home of "The Adventures of Tintin," one of the most well-known comic strips in the world to being the origin of the saxophone. Getting a Belgium visa is the first step towards discovering everything this charming European nation has to offer whether your goal is to go there or you're just interested in learning more about its fascinating history.

Here are The Interesting & Fun Facts about Belgium

1. Dedicated Chocolate Area:

Producing more than 220,000 tons of chocolate annually Belgium is a chocolate lover's dream come true. Since the nation has been producing chocolate for generations it is well known throughout the world for its premium chocolates. Thanks to years of expert chocolatiers honing their craft Belgian chocolate is renowned for its smooth texture and mouth-watering flavours. Belgium has unmatched chocolate choices ranging from its renowned pralines to a vast selection of chocolate bars, truffles and hot cocoa. One must visit Belgium's numerous chocolate shops if one wishes to partake in this delectable custom. There's a chocolate shop on practically every corner in places like Antwerp, Bruges and Brussels and each one offers something different. 

2. The Beer Lovers' Home:

With an incredible selection of over 2,200 beers Belgium is a veritable paradise for beer lovers. This remarkable selection ranges from inventive artisan beers that push flavour boundaries to classic Trappist ales brewed by monks. Beer enthusiasts all over the world appreciate Belgian beers because of their distinctive flavour, body and stylistic variations. The nation has a centuries-old brewing heritage with distinctive recipes and techniques used by individual brewers as well as by entire regions. There are plenty of opportunities for anyone interested in learning more about Belgium's beer culture. Numerous breweries provide tours so that guests can experience a variety of their products and learn about the brewing process. 

3. The World's Tallest Building is Not Higher than Belgium's Highest Point:

Although Belgium isn't well-known for its massive mountains it does contain the Signal de Botrange as its highest peak. Situated in the northeast of Belgium on the High Fens plateau this peak rises to a relatively low elevation of 694 meters (2,277 feet) above sea level. Remarkably, at 828 meters (2,717 ft.), this height is actually lower than that of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai the world's tallest structure. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts frequent the Signal de Botrange because it provides breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside.

4. The Language of Belgium Is Absent:

The variety of languages spoken in Belgium is among its most intriguing features. In contrast to many other nations Belgium does not have a singular national tongue called "Belgian." Dutch, French, and German are the three official languages of the nation instead. The intricate cultural and regional divides seen in Belgium are reflected in this multilingualism. While French is the primary language spoken in the southern region of Wallonia, Dutch is the major language in the northern region of Flanders. There is a little German-speaking community in the country's east. Belgium’s educational system has also been influenced by its linguistic terrain. The majority of Flemish people are multilingual since most of them start learning French in fifth grade at schools that speak the Dutch language. 

5. Fries before French:

Unexpected and entertaining as it may seem, Belgium is the real origin of the dish the world knows as "French fries". Though they go by a different name, these golden, crispy treats originated in Belgium and are simply called "frites." The legend states that when the river froze over in the late 17th century, villagers in the Meuse Valley of Belgium were unable to fish and so they started frying potatoes. These fried potatoes took off as a popular snack and made their way to France and other countries where they were dubbed French fries.

6. The Diamond District:

In the realm of extravagance and luxury Belgium is unmatched especially in Antwerp, which is referred to as the "Diamond Capital of the World”. The city's Diamond District serves as the hub for the world's raw diamond trade, processing and selling about 84% of the world's rough diamonds. Numerous diamond dealers, cutters and traders can be found in this busy neighbourhood all of whom help to make Antwerp a major player in the market. Explore a stunning variety of diamonds and precious jewels in Antwerp's Diamond District and discover the complex procedures that turn these stones from uncut stone to brilliant jewellery.

Conclusion:

Belgium's diverse array of historical, cultural and gastronomic treasures never fails to astound and enchant visitors. Belgium has a diverse range of experiences to suit all types of travellers from the shops selling exquisite chocolates and an extensive beer selection to the fascinating linguistic diversity and the vibrant diamond trade. Belgium never ceases to wow with its charm and richness whether you're strolling around the charming alleys of Brussels indulging in golden fries at a neighbourhood fritkot or admiring the architectural magnificence of ancient cities.

Remember to include the necessary step of obtaining your Belgium visa in your travel plans to this fascinating nation. This indispensable guide is your ticket to exploring everything Belgium has to offer from its well-known sites to its lesser-known treasures. Whether you are drawn to Belgium because of its rich history vibrant culture or just the appeal of its beer and chocolate a trip across this dynamic country is sure to leave you with many fascinating and entertaining facts to learn about.