# Belgium: In the Heart of Europe > Discover how Belgium blends two languages, two cultures and two religions into a symbiosis found nowhere else on the continent. A guide to a country of contrasts. - URL: https://langandtrip.com.ua/en/article/belhiya-u-sertsi-yevropy/ - Language: en - Published: 2023-03-02 - Categories: Culture, Historic Sites, Leisure, Mountains, Tours, Belgium, Lakes, Relaxation --- Belgium is a mysterious and irresistibly charming country right in the heart of Europe. A small nation with a big history, storied cities wrapped in legend, and a cuisine that leaves a lasting impression. In Belgium, two languages, two cultures and two religions come together in perfect harmony, creating a kind of symbiosis unlike anything else on the continent. This compact country is the birthplace of both the European Union and NATO, and it is home to the capital of Europe, Brussels. Belgium's hospitality shines through in every one of its cities, and the sense of history hanging in the air draws travelers from all over the world. You can spend hours wandering the narrow streets of Antwerp or Ghent, discovering something new at every turn. In Belgium, there is simply no time to be bored. ## The Belgian Mindset: Bilingualism and Hospitality ![Historic Belgian city square with ornate guild houses](/storage/image/prev/belgium-article2-1024x610.png) ![Charming cobblestone street in a Belgian town](/storage/image/prev/belgium-article6-1024x610.png) Belgium is a country of contrasts that both draws you in and surprises you with its character. Belgians take great pride in their culture and traditions, yet they remain wonderfully open to the world. Travelers are always delighted to find that Belgians are warm and welcoming, ready to lend a hand and offer good advice. It is worth noting that Belgium has two official languages, French and Dutch. Depending on the region you find yourself in, you may be answered in either one. This makes the country all the more colorful and one of a kind. Meeting Belgians always leaves you with nothing but pleasant memories. ## Belgium's History in Stone and Bronze ![Gothic cathedral rising above a Belgian city](/storage/image/prev/belgium-article7-1024x610.png) Belgium is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. Wherever you go in this country, there is always something ready to carry you back a few centuries. - The Grand Place, Brussels. One of the most beautiful city squares in the world. Here you will find a whole array of architectural masterpieces, including the King's House and the Guild Houses. - The Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp. A magnificent Gothic building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, it holds a collection of works by Peter Paul Rubens. - Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent. Here you will find a truly unique work of art, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers. - Gravensteen Castle, Ghent. This is one of the oldest and most beautiful castles in Europe, with a history reaching back to the 12th century. - The Citadel of Dinant. A medieval fortress perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views over the town and the surrounding landscape. - The Royal Palace, Brussels. One of the city's main attractions and an absolute must-see. Inside you will find lavish halls and an entire collection of works of art. ## Belgium's Nature: Hidden Treasures ![Lush green forest and rolling hills in the Belgian countryside](/storage/image/prev/belgium-article5-1024x610.png) Majestic forests, beautiful parks, picturesque rivers and lakes: the nature of Belgium wears many faces. The list of its most popular natural landmarks includes: - The Ardennes. This mountainous region is a true paradise for lovers of the outdoors and active travel. Here you will find countless trails for hiking and cycling. - The High Fens National Park. One of the most beautiful nature parks in the country, with diverse landscapes and wildlife. - The Sonian Forest. A place to soak up peace and quiet as you stroll along its many paths. - The Koksijde Dunes. This is one of the largest and most striking dune areas in Belgium. - Lake Genval. One of the largest lakes in Belgium, surrounded by scenic woodland. Each of these places offers a unique experience and a chance to see Belgium from a whole new angle. ## Belgium's Waterways: Rivers, Canals and Lakes ![Tranquil canal reflecting historic Belgian buildings](/storage/image/prev/belgium-article3-1024x610.png) Water is an essential part of the Belgian landscape. Whether it is the picturesque rivers and canals lapping at city walls or the grand lakes ringed by forests, the country's waterways leave unforgettable impressions. - The Canals of Bruges. The Venice of the North, as the city is known, is famous for its canals, which you can explore by boat. - The Meuse River. This is one of the most beautiful rivers in the country, lined with towns such as Namur and Dinant. - Lake Leuven. A wonderful spot for boating or a picnic out in nature. - The Canals of Ghent. Take a boat ride and enjoy the view of medieval buildings mirrored in the water. - Lake Eau d'Heure. Here you can take up water sports or simply enjoy the surrounding nature. ## Belgium's Mountains: The Ardennes and Beyond ![Forested hills and rugged terrain of the Ardennes](/storage/image/prev/belgium-article4-1024x610.png) Belgium is not defined by the sweeping mountain scenery that other countries are famous for. Even so, there are a handful of places that can offer unique and breathtaking mountain views. The country's largest mountain range is the Ardennes, set in the south of the country. These are Belgium's celebrated "mountains," shrouded in an air of mystery and romance. In the Ardennes, visitors will find shady forests, cool mountain streams, roaring waterfalls, and brooding castles perched on cliffs. ### **Signal de Botrange: A Peak Worth the Climb** The summit of Signal de Botrange deserves special mention. It is the highest point in Belgium, and it too lies in the Ardennes. Travelers eager to feel the thrill of conquering the country's "peak" make a point of heading here. You can imagine yourself a real mountaineer, standing on the summit and gazing down at the magnificent scenery below. ### **Belgium: A Country of Variety** Belgium is a country that has something for everyone. Cultural heritage, scenic mountains, deep forests, hilltop castles, sweeping city panoramas, mouthwatering chocolate, brewing traditions, welcoming locals: all of it makes the country truly one of a kind, wrapped in an atmosphere all its own. We invite you to make the journey to Belgium. It will stay with you in your heart as a country that gave you unforgettable experiences, vivid memories, and rich adventures.