© Ghent
Discover Belgium’s
Historical landmarks
Grand-Place
Pay a visit to La Grand-Place while you’re in our capital. The buildings on the cobbled square date back to the 17th Century and give a vivid depiction of what life might have looked like in that time. La Grand-Place in Brussels shows an eclectic mixture of architectural and artistic styles. It shows what a successful trading city Brussels was in the 17th Century.
© Gettyimages
Notre-Dame de Tournai
Listed by UNESCO for its 5 bell towers, its nave and transept of Romanesque style, Notre-Dame de Tournai is a true gem. It gives a vivid representation of medieval architecture and shows some incredible works of art. Its columns are topped with capitals that are all different (over a hundred unique pieces in total!) and at the central choir screen you’ll find a renaissance masterpiece by Flemish sculptor Corneille de Vriendt. Definitely worth a visit!
© Tournai
Historic town centre of Ghent
Not included in the UNESCO world heritage list, but definitely worthy of its candidacy, is the historic town centre of Ghent. Stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the Castle of the Counts, the belfry or Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and have a fun day with your family or a romantic one with your partner.
© Getty Images
Mons
The only baroque belfry in Belgium deserves all the praise it gets. Mons’ belfry. Built in the late 1660’s, it reaches an impressive 87 metres in height. Have a look once you are at the top: the 49 chiming bells ring out their traditional melody every quarter of an hour… Having survived a few wars and plagues, it now is included in the UNESCO world heritage list.
Find more about Mons here
© Gregory Mathelot
Waterloo
Another candidate for the UNESCO world heritage list is the battlefield of Waterloo. The memorial doesn’t just show you everything you need to know about Napoleon’s battle. It’s also surrounded by gorgeous rolling hills. A good hike up to the top will lead you to the Lion’s Mound, one of the most important monuments in Belgium.
Find more about Waterloo here
© Olivier Cappeliez
Let beautiful Belgium wow you!
The best of Belgium in 3, 6 or 9 days
Get inspired for your next holiday and let us show you a selection of the highlights our country has to offer.
