🍟 Fun facts you didn’t know about Brussels
Welcome to the foodie heaven: Brussels is well known for its beer, waffles, french fries and chocolate. This stunning city is not only a gourmet capital, but also the capital of Europe. EU institutions like the European Commission, the European Council, Council of the European Union and European Parliament call Brussels “home”.
Eager to find out more fun facts about Brussels? Keep reading!
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🍫 #1 World’s largest chocolate selling point
Belgians love their chocolate, and so do the visitors. It’s no wonder that Brussels International Airport is the largest chocolate selling point in the world. Some of our favorite Brussels chocolate spots are: Maison Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, Maison Dandoy, Mary Chocolatier, and Elisabeth Chocolatier…to name just a few.
🍽️ #2 Foodie capital
With 138 restaurants per square mile, Brussels is a gastronomic paradise. From delicious street food to unique fine dining experiences, you will definitely not go hungry exploring this city. What we recommend is to try the Moules Frites (mussels and fries), a dish originating from Belgium. Le Pré Salé or Le Zinneke are great restaurants for a true local experience.
🛍️ #3 Europe’s oldest shopping arcade
Europe’s oldest shopping arcade, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, opened in Brussels in 1847 and it is still one of the most visited spots in the city. The gallery includes luxurious shops, fancy cafés and restaurants.
🏊♀️ #4 Dive in into Nemo 33
Nemo 33, the world’s second deepest swimming pool, reaches 35 meters in depth and has several simulated underwater caves. Nemo 33 has held the record for the deepest indoor swimming pool in the world until 2014 when the Y-40 pool opened in Padua, Italy. It is a great practice ground for scuba divers and adventurers alike.
🧇 #5 There are two types of Belgian waffles
Did you know there are actually two types of Belgian waffles? There is a Brussels Waffle and the Liege Waffle. A Brussels waffle is rectangular in shape, bigger than the other waffle types, it’s crunchy on the outside, and airier and lighter on the inside. Liege waffle, on the other hand, has no right angled corners, it’s doughier, sweeter and less crunchy.
💚 #6 The origin of Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts have been grown in Belgium for over 700 years, dating back to the 16th century. They are known for being a particularly flavorful vegetable – you either love it or you hate it.
💫 #7 Belgium is a home to many famous comic artists
Did you know that beloved comic heroes like Tin Tin, Lucky Luke, Gaston, Gil Jourdan and Marsupilami are “Belgians”? The city of Brussels is paying tribute to them everywhere, so keep an eye on the building facades when you walk through the city to spot many comic book references. More than 50 colorful mural paintings can be found around the city.
🗣️ #8 There are three official languages in Belgium
Belgians do not share one common language, there are 3 official languages in the country. In Brussels, people mostly speak French and Flemish Dutch, whereas in other parts of country you can also hear German, the third official language spoken in Belgium.
Fun Facts Brussels: FAQs
Why is Brussels known as the 'Capital of Europe'?
Brussels is often referred to as the "Capital of Europe" because it hosts several major international institutions including the headquarters of the European Union (EU) and NATO.
Is Brussels a bilingual city?
Yes, Brussels is officially bilingual. The city's two official languages are French and Dutch, reflecting the two main communities in Belgium – the French-speaking Walloons and the Dutch-speaking Flemish.
What is the historical significance of the Grand Place in Brussels?
The Grand Place is a central square in Brussels known for its ornate buildings, including the stunning Town Hall. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
Is Brussels known for any particular food items?
Brussels is famous worldwide for its gastronomy, particularly for Belgian waffles, Belgian chocolate, and French fries, which despite the name, are actually believed to have originated in Belgium. The city also lends its name to Brussels sprouts.
What is unique about the Atomium in Brussels?
The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels, originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair (Expo 58). It represents a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and serves as a museum today.
What role does Brussels play in the comic book world?
Brussels has a strong connection to comic books and is often referred to as the "Capital of Comics." It's the birthplace of famous comics like The Smurfs and Tintin, and is home to the Belgian Comic Strip Center.
Is Brussels a green city?
Indeed, Brussels is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Almost half of the city's territory consists of green areas, including forests, parks, and gardens. The Sonian Forest, located at the city's edge, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What is the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken?
The Royal Greenhouses of Laiken is a vast complex of monumental heated greenhouses within the Royal Castle of Laeken's park. Built in the 19th century, it's home to a significant collection of exotic plants and flowers.
How is Brussels connected to the Art Nouveau movement?
Brussels is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, thanks to the work of architects like Victor Horta and Paul Hankar. Buildings such as the Horta Museum showcase the ornate and organic characteristics of this artistic movement.
Are there any famous personalities born in Brussels?
Famous personalities born in Brussels include singer Lara Fabian, actress Audrey Hepburn, and fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg.
Where to sleep in Brussels?
Looking for a family hotel in Brussels?
Our hotels are located near the city center which gives our guests access to the entire city with ease via excellent public transport connections.
