About Leuven

Oude Markt

The city center looks like a very well preserved town with buildings from the 17th and 18th century. Unfortunately this is not due to a well organized protection but to a reconstruction of the old city. The center of Leuven was almost completely destroyed during the First World War and was carefully rebuilt afterwards.

Town Hall

All through the year, the city of Leuven presents lively atmosphere because of the many students from all over Belgium. Especially in the evening, the many bars and students café, spread all over town, guarantee that there is always something happening. Very popular is the area around the 'Oude Markt' (Old Market).

Students in Leuven

When brewing became a nationwide industry in the 19th century, Leuven became world famous for its beers, and today is still proud to be known as the beer capital of Belgium.
Belgians will always associate the city of Leuven with one of the most famous and popular lager beer brands in Belgium: Stella Artois.

"Fonske" is a statue near the centre of town. Its full name is Fons Sapientiae, Latin for "fountain of wisdom". The statue represents a university student who, while reading a book, lets wisdom flow into his head as liquid from a glass. Fonske is from time to time dressed in costumes appropriate for the occasion.

For those looking to find the most beautiful medieval building in the world: look no further! You will find it in the Belgian city of Leuven. The magnificent 15th century town hall of the city of Leuven alone is worth the trip.

The University Library on the Ladeuzeplein was a gift from the American people to Leuven after World War I during which the Germans burned down the original library, causing much outroar in the USA. Totem is a statue at the centre of the Ladeuzeplein; it is a work of the Belgian artist Jan Fabre. On a 23 meters high needle a giant jewel beetle shines against the clouds.

The Large Beguinage is one of the world's best remaining examples of its architectural type. It was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1998. It was founded in 1232 for ladies and girls from the city and the surrounding area. It was closed in 1796 by the French occupants, but shortly afterwards it was re-opened. By 1962, the original function had since long ended and the entire complex was bought by the university of Leuven. The old 16th and 17th century houses were transformed into modern flats for students and academic staff.

Leuven presents a large range of beautiful monuments such as the St. Peter's Church, the St. Michael's Church and the University Hall.

Leuven is a creative and dynamic city also on a cultural level. There are several museums to visit, for instance the Museum M. The museum M maintains a number of exhibition spaces and a collection that grew historically.

The herbal gardens of Leuven are the oldest in Belgium. The Leuven
university created a first herbal garden in 1738 for its medical students. Besides the scientific and educational value of the plant collection, the visitors will enjoy the heavenly beauty of the place. In July and August the garden is the backdrop for "Summer in the Herbal garden", an outdoor exhibition with national and international works of art.