Brussels - Culture

Brussels is the capital of Belgium. The origins of Brussels date back to the 10th century when a Castle was built on the St Gery Island in the middle of the Senne river.  In the Middle Ages, Brussels flourished as a stopover on the commercial road between Brugge and the Koln, in Germany.  This is when the drapery and tapestry industries developed.  The original Grand Place was built over the 13th and 16th century, but most have been restored and rebuilt since then. Brussels was under French rule at the beginning of the 19th century until 1830 and the Belgian Revolution, which gave them their independence from the Dutch. It was at this time Belgium became a kingdom with Brussels the capital city.  Brussels has expanded and developed in the years since.

In the reign of Leopold II, improvements took place, like the laying of the circle of boulevards in the centre of Brussels.  It follows the old ramparts of the 14th century.  The “Cinquantenaire”, the Basilica of Koekelberg, the Stock Exchange building or La Bourse/De Beursand the Theatre of La Monnaie were also built at that time, as were many public parks in the city, including the Park of Laeken. The city was then occupied by the Germans during both world wars and suffered numerous bombings during WWII. Today Brussels is a major European city and is home to NATO and the European Union. Blending history, art, culture and unique architecture, this city is home to over eighty museums, various night clubs as well as dozens of cafes and restaurants.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels was founded over two centuries ago. The museum also consists of the Ancient & Modern Art Museums and houses more than twenty thousand paintings, sculptures and drawings. Here you will find some of Belgium and Europe's finest. Exhibits on display are by Bosch and Bruegel, Cranach and Memling, Jordaens and Rubens, Delveaux and Magritte. The Medieval Grand-Place, is magnificant, with many 17th-century buildings and daily flower markets. The Palace was reopened in 2006. The Atomium, or also known as Brussels' Eiffel Tower, provides great views. Architecture fans should visit Musee Horta, home of Belgian architect Victor Horta.

A cultural holiday is the perfect way to relax and embrace the cultural heritage of Belgium while learning something new. We have a number of wonderful villas, houses and apartments with pools and barbeque areas, all perfectly positioned for you to embark on your cultural holiday. Simply choose your destination and we are sure you will find your accomodation, easily.