Sightseeing in Leuven - what to see. Complete travel guide

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. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

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.

It will be interesting for fans of historical sites to stroll through the Spanish Quarter. There are many beautiful buildings of the 17th century, built from red bricks. The entire territory of this picturesque area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For many travelers this historic area is also known as the old Aborg Castle. By beauty, it can only be compared with the cultural and historical complex of Big Beguinage.

In the warm season, it is worth visiting the Botanical Garden of Leuven, located near the central square of the city and founded in 1738. Now, this botanical garden is the oldest in the country. It was originally run by the University of Leuven and used to grow medicinal herbs. Only in 1835 was the garden handed over to the city administration. Many beautiful fountains were built on its territory and decorative plants were planted, which can be admired now. A total of 800 species of plants are represented on the territory of the garden, and a beautiful greenhouse was built to maintain the most valuable specimens.

In the vicinity of Leuven is located the beautiful Castle of Arenberg, which is one of the most beautiful buildings in the country in the Gothic style. This castle was built in the 11th century and was originally the residence of the lords of Heverle. However, already in the 15th century the clan was on the brink of ruin and had to sell the castle. The new owner has almost completely rebuilt the castle. From the beginning of the 16th century, he practically did not change its appearance. In 1921, the old building was taken over by the University of Leuven, which now houses a library.

The starting point of many sightseeing programs is the beautiful Grote Market Square. It is one of the oldest places in the city. This area was built simultaneously with the construction of the university. Now the huge area is surrounded by incredibly beautiful historical buildings in the Gothic style. In many buildings there are attractive restaurants and souvenir shops. For many years, the most important public events and holidays have been held on the square, and on the eve of Christmas there is always a festive fair here. The most interesting entertainment events on this square are held in August, when locals celebrate the symbolic holiday of the May Tree.