Travel Guide to Leuven, Belgium

Leuven is a city in Belgium located in the province Brabant. Leuven is a port town that stands on the Dyle River and on a channel that connects Leuven with Scheldt. The population of the city estimated 32.2 thousands of people in 1971.

The city features well developed sawing, textile, metal processing and chemical industries. The oldest catholic university of Belgium is also located in Leuven.

First mentions of Leuven are referred to 884 AD. At that time it was used as a stay for Normans. Starting from the IX century Leuven became the residence of earls. In 1106 it became the official residence of dukes of Louvain. During XI – XII centuries Leuven got sufficient popularity as the center of trading and textile industry. However, it lost its importance already in XV-XVI centuries. During both World Wars the town was occupied by the German troops.

Starting from the medieval time Leuven has got a circular planning. There are several gothic buildings in this place. These are Saint Quintin’s Kirche, St. Hertrudis Kirche, St. Peter’s churches, a 12 meters tall tabernacle made of stone, a town hall and living quarters. The St. Michael’s Kirche church is designed in the Baroque style.

The buildings of the university, Large and Old trading squares are surrounded by royal examples of architecture of XV-XVI centuries. The town hall located on the Grote Markt is the most fascinating building of the town and of all Belgium as well.

St. Peter's Church, which is also located on Grote Markt, is built in the gothic style. The church has been rebuilt after the World War II. In the crypt of St. Peter you can see such famous pieces of art of the XV century as “The Last Supper” and “The Martyrdom of Holy Erasmus” created by Dirk Boots.

Travellers traditionally visit Begijnhof Monastery. In this monastery lived women who devoted themselves to religion, but who didn't get rid of their property, so they could maintain themselves. Other places of interest include St. Gertrude Abbey, Park Abbey and Vlierbeek Abbey.