34 Facts About Brussels

Brussels: A City of Surprises

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city full of history, culture, and unique quirks. From its famous landmarks to its lesser-known secrets, Brussels has something for everyone. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this vibrant city.

Historical Facts

Brussels has a rich history that dates back centuries. Here are some historical tidbits that might surprise you.

1. Brussels was officially founded in 979 AD by Duke Charles of Lower Lorraine.
2. The city became the capital of the Duchy of Brabant in the 12th century.
3. The Grand Place, Brussels' central square, was originally a marketplace in the 11th century.
4. In 1695, the Grand Place was bombarded by the French army, leading to significant reconstruction.
5. Brussels became the capital of Belgium when the country gained independence in 1830.

Architectural Marvels

Brussels is known for its stunning architecture, blending Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles.

6. The Atomium, built for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
7. Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a boy peeing, dates back to 1619 and has over 900 costumes.
8. The Royal Palace of Brussels is larger than Buckingham Palace.
9. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is one of the largest churches in the world.
10. Victor Horta, a pioneer of Art Nouveau architecture, designed several buildings in Brussels, including the Horta Museum.

Cultural Highlights

Brussels is a cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene and numerous festivals.

11. The city hosts the annual Brussels Summer Festival, featuring music, theater, and dance performances.
12. The Magritte Museum houses the largest collection of works by surrealist artist René Magritte.
13. Brussels is home to the world-famous Ommegang Festival, a historical reenactment dating back to the 16th century.
14. The city has over 80 museums, including the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Musical Instruments Museum.
15. Comic book culture is huge in Brussels, with murals of famous characters like Tintin and the Smurfs adorning buildings.

Culinary Delights

Belgium is known for its delicious food, and Brussels is no exception. Here are some culinary facts to whet your appetite.

16. Brussels is the birthplace of the praline, invented by Jean Neuhaus in 1912.
17. The city boasts over 2,000 restaurants, offering a wide range of cuisines.
18. Belgian waffles, known locally as Brussels waffles, are a must-try treat.
19. Brussels sprouts, despite their name, were first cultivated in ancient Rome.
20. The city is famous for its beer, with over 180 breweries producing a variety of styles.

Political Significance

Brussels plays a crucial role in international politics and diplomacy.

21. The city is the de facto capital of the European Union, hosting major EU institutions like the European Commission and the European Parliament.
22. NATO's headquarters are located in Brussels.
23. The city is home to over 120 international governmental organizations.
24. Brussels hosts more than 1,400 non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
25. The city has the second-largest number of embassies in the world, after Washington, D.C.

Unique Traditions

Brussels has some unique traditions and customs that set it apart from other cities.

26. The Meyboom, a tree-planting festival, has been celebrated annually since 1308.
27. The city has a tradition of "flower carpets," where the Grand Place is covered in intricate floral designs every two years.
28. The Ommegang Festival includes a parade featuring historical costumes and horse-drawn carriages.
29. The Zinneke Parade, held every two years, is a multicultural event celebrating the city's diversity.
30. The Manneken Pis statue is dressed in different costumes for various occasions, including national holidays and special events.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Brussels is full of fun and quirky facts that make it a unique destination.

31. The city has more comic book shops per square kilometer than any other city in the world.
32. Brussels is home to the world's largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings.
33. The city has a network of underground tunnels known as the "Brussels Sewers," which can be toured by the public.
34. The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, open to the public for only a few weeks each year, house a stunning collection of exotic plants.

Brussels: A City of Surprises

Brussels is more than just the capital of Belgium. It's a city brimming with history, culture, and quirky facts. From its famous Manneken Pis statue to the Atomium, there's always something intriguing to discover. The city is a melting pot of languages, with French and Dutch being the most widely spoken. Brussels is also the heart of the European Union, making it a hub for international politics. Don't forget the delicious waffles, chocolates, and beer that the city is famous for. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves exploring new places, Brussels has something for everyone. So next time you think of Brussels, remember it's not just about politics and waffles—it's a city full of surprises waiting to be uncovered.