Brussels – The Heart of Europe

Belgium’s capital Brussels is the heart of Europe as the home of number of EU institutions. Cosmopolitanism and internationality are just as present here as art, culture and an exciting historical setting. Brussels is a city of many languages: sometimes Dutch can be heard, then French, often English and around 100 other languages. Brussels is not only known for its rather unusual landmark Manneken Pis and the Atomium, but also for chocolate, frites, lace and beer.

Built on seven hills, Brussels offers many beautiful viewpoints. A walk through the city’s different districts is a good way to experience how rich in contrast the Belgian capital is. There is Matongé, the African quarter, the upper town; the magnificent Grand-Place in the city centre, the colourful murals in the streets, the beautiful art nouveau buildings, the diverse restaurant scene; in short, there’s plenty to discover on a visit to Brussels.

A “little pissing man” as the city’s landmark and most popular photo scene in Brussels? Yes, indeed! Manneken Pis, Brussels’ most famous rascal, is considered a symbol of freedom of expression, spirit of resistance and democratic values. According to one of the many legends, “Petit Julien”, as the little man is also called, saved Brussels from an enemy fire with his urine. The bronze statue, just 61 centimetres tall, was created by Jérôme Duquesnoy in 1619. However, the one at the fountain is a copy. The original figure can be admired in the Maison du Roi City Museum on the Grand-Place. Belgian waffles, frites, lobbyists and funny comics are at least as typical of Brussels as Manneken Pis is.

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