Belgium is a relatively new country founded in 1830 as an independent state emerging from the area called Belgica that was also contended by the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Belgium is a country that is bilingual, with both Walloon speaking French and Flemish speaking Dutch. The capital Brussels is in an area of traditional Flemish territory but has a French-speaking enclave contained within it, Brussels today, also serves as the political centre of the European Union. Belgium, being once the battleground of Europe, has therefore many examples of architecture before its independence and architectural triumphs created since its autonomy was gained.
The Grande Place – the historic square, the guild houses and other buildings that are adjacent dating from the 17th century rising amongst Art Nouveau and magnificent stained glass windows. The square was almost destroyed by the Sun King Louis XIV and has seen other noble notables such as the Spanish monarchy and the more idealistic views of Karl Marx whose ideas of communism had him exiled here in 1845.
Ostende, a city on the Belgium coast is another place of warfare and during the 17th century it was depicted as one of the single bloodiest battles that occurred during the Eighty Years War at the beginning of the 1600’s. From its origins as a fishing village it has risen to become one of the biggest cities in this country and it has its own beach line and his connected to England via the Ferry. Its white silky beaches and warm climate during the peak season makes it a great place for the sun worshipper and bather. Accompanied by bistros, shops and cafes where you can eat alfresco. Bruges and Antwerp also offer a generous coastline too with white-sanded beaches and a tramway to ferry folk to and fro.
The country of Belgium is full of historical heritage and its many museums pay homage to them. Coupled with the coast it offers much to the tourist who seeks both sightseeing and sun.
We are sorry but at the present time we do not have any holiday rentals available in Belgium.
