Brussels, Belgium, is the capital of Belgium, Flanders, and the European Union and is the headquarters of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Because it is at the center of international politics, it is truly a diverse and cosmopolitan city. It encompasses a metropolitan area composed of nineteen municipalities with a population of over two million residents. Brussels is officially bilingual; all street signs are in French and Dutch and some signs even include English.

History

In 979, Carl of France constructed a small fortress by the Senne or Zenne River and Brussels was founded. Brussels became an important trade center in the Middle Ages; many of the Brussels craftsmen specialized in fabrics, such a famous Belgian lace. Many rebellions took place over the centuries between the Flemish and the French. In 1515, the Spanish king Charles V gained control of Brussels, but by 1700, the Austrians ruled Brussels. In 1830 after a successful rebellion, a Flemish King ruled Belgium from Brussels. With its new independence, Brussels expanded and flourished. Today it is the political and business center of Europe.

Art & Museums

The Grand Place is actually is a square surrounded by beautiful baroque buildings constructed during the 15th through 17th centuries. Museums are in several of the tradesman’s guild buildings in Grand Place, such as the Brewer’s Museum. The Royal Museum of Art in Brussels showcases 15th century to modern day art treasures. The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels is where over 1500 instruments from all over the world are displayed.
One of Brussels’ most famous festivals, originating in 1549, is the annual Ommegang held June 30-July 2. The Ommegang is a celebration of medieval pageantry, and its backdrop is the Grand Place.

Nightlife

Brussels offers an exciting variety of entertaining nightlife. There are exotic nightclubs, techno-style dance clubs, and traditional brown pubs. All night spots offer servings of famous Belgian beer; there are 400 varieties. Every kind of music can be found in the night spots of Brussels, from Hungarian to jazz or rock.

How to get there

Since Brussels is the political center of Europe, airline flights from around the world fly into the Brussels International Airport. Brussels is also connected to all of Europe by the international Thalys and Eurostar trains. Bus service is available to Brussels through Eurolines and Gulliver’s.