Amazing Belgium

A 23-meter high needle adorns a giant jewel beetle, pinned against the clouds in front of the university library of Leuven. The artwork of the Beatle is made by Jan Fabre, a world-famous Belgian multidisciplinary artist. The jewel beetle artwork that goes under the name of Totem is a gift from the university to the city, on the occasion of its 575th anniversary. The university wanted long-lasting quality and invited the artist in 2000 to design the concept. Jan Fabre got a wild card for the design. He found the ideas in drawings he made years ago. During a walk through the city, Jan Fabre ruled that the Ladeuzeplein was the best place for the giant jewel beetle. Jan Fabre explains his concept: The beetle is the memory of nature, a kind of senior computer world, a radar of human existence. The total work of art refers to a collection, a collection of insects pinpricks pricked and reversed. Importantly, the relationship with the university: collective memory of man, a bui...

Design Museum Brussels: A Celebration of Design

The Design Museum Brussels, located in the heart of the city, is a haven for design enthusiasts. Housed in a modern building, the museum was established following the acquisition of a private collection by the Atomium and is dedicated to exploring the history and evolution of design. Picture: Tom P The Plastic Design Collection One of the museum's highlights is the Plastic Design Collection. This extensive collection showcases the significant role of plastics in design from the 1950s to the present day. Visitors can admire a wide range of objects, from everyday household items to iconic pieces of furniture, all crafted from this versatile material. Belgisch Design Belge In addition to the Plastic Design Collection, the museum opened a new permanent exhibition space dedicated to Belgian design and its rich history. This exhibition offers a comprehensive overview of the country's design heritage, showcasing the work of both renowned and emerging designers. Temporary Exhibitions...

Tomorrowland: A Belgian Dream

Tomorrowland, a global phenomenon, has its roots firmly planted in the heart of Belgium. This annual electronic dance music festival in Boom has transformed a modest recreational park into a magical realm, captivating millions worldwide. A Belgian Creation Tomorrowland, the brainchild of brothers Manu and Michiel Beers, debuted in 2005. Inspired by their love for music and grand events, they envisioned a festival that would transcend the ordinary. The festival's unique blend of elaborate stage designs, world-class DJs, and immersive experiences quickly set it apart. The Belgian Spirit While Tomorrowland has become a global sensation, its Belgian heritage is undeniable. Here's why: Attention to Detail: Belgians are renowned for their meticulous approach, which is evident in every aspect of Tomorrowland. From the intricate stage designs to the seamless organization, every detail is carefully considered. picture: Tomorrowland Festive Culture: Belgians have a deep-rooted love...

Belgian kids got to drink beer during their school lunch

There are almost 800 different kinds of beer in Belgium. One kind was very popular till the70's, it was even given to kids at school during their lunch break. Beer to kids? You must be kidding! Well, let's go a bit further into this. The beers we are talking about were so-called table beers, a kind of beer that was specially made for people who can't drink alcohol. So it's was a kind of alcohol-free beer, a kind, because there was some alcohol in it. between 1 and 4 percent alcohol. The most popular table beer was Piedboeuf, it had 1.1 percent alcohol in it and there was a lot of sugar added to make it as sweet as Coca-Cola. A good marketing strategy made that it was well distributed in almost all schools in Belgium. The reason was that it would be very healthy for them, because of the natural ingredients and of course the sugar. It would make them grow fast and strong. It would even be good for pregnant women and for women that were breastfeeding their baby...

Pieter-Jan De Smet: Belgian Missionary and his Accomplishments in the US

Pieter-Jan De Smet was a Belgian Catholic priest and missionary who is best known for his work with Native Americans in the United States. He was born in Dendermonde, Belgium, in 1801 and immigrated to the United States in 1821. He joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and was ordained a priest in 1827. Pieter-Jan De Smet De Smet began his missionary work in Missouri, where he established a mission among the Potawatomi people. He later worked with other tribes in the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains, including the Sioux, Blackfoot, and Crow. He was known for his ability to build relationships with Native American leaders and for his efforts to promote peace between Native Americans and the United States government. De Smet was also a prolific writer and chronicler of Native American life and culture. His writings provide valuable insights into the history of the American West and the experiences of Native Americans during this period. Some of De Smet's most significant accomp...

Brussels introduces first 100% electric horse carriage for tourists

The very first fully electric carriage arrived on Brussels' Grand Place. No horse to pull the carriage, but a completely silent electric motor. This new attraction offers tourists a unique way to explore the city without horses. The electric carriage, the brainchild of former operator Thibault Danthine, replaces the traditional horse-drawn carriages that were discontinued in 2022. Danthine decided to stop because of a staff shortage and criticism of the use of horses. "Carriages represent an era that is no longer in line with the expectations of our time, but the pleasure of discovering the city in this way remains great," he says. Picture: Pixabay Brussels is the first European city to use these electric carriages for tourism. Tourists can choose from different routes for €70 per group, taking them past landmarks such as the Kunstberg, the Stock Exchange, and Manneken Pis. Without horses, more places and streets are accessible. In addition to the first carriage unveile...

Tintin: The Enduring Legacy of a Belgian Comic Book Hero

Tintin is the intrepid young reporter who has captivated audiences worldwide for nearly a century. Created by the Belgian cartoonist Hergé, Tintin first appeared in 1929 and quickly became a sensation. His adventures, accompanied by his loyal canine companion Snowy, transported readers to every corner of the globe, tackling mysteries, encountering exotic cultures, and thwarting villains. Picture by Pixabay Tintin's appeal is multifaceted. Hergé's clean, expressive ligne claire art style brought the characters and settings to life. The stories, though lighthearted on the surface, often touched on social and political themes, sparking curiosity and discussion. Tintin himself is a relatable hero – courageous, resourceful, and guided by a strong sense of justice. Tintin's legacy extends far beyond the comic book page. Translated into over 100 languages, the series has sold millions of copies worldwide. Tintin has been adapted for radio, film, television, and even theatre. S...

The Enigmatic Art of René Magritte: Master of Surrealism

René Magritte, a Belgian artist born in 1898, stands as a giant in the world of Surrealism. He is best known for his thought-provoking paintings that challenge our perception of reality and play with everyday objects in unexpected ways. A Life Marked by Loss and Inspiration: Magritte's early life was marked by a tragic event – his mother's suicide when he was only 14. This experience, he later confided, influenced his artistic vision, particularly his fascination with the hidden and the mysterious. Despite the challenges, Magritte pursued his artistic passion, attending the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels. A Master of the Unexpected: Magritte embraced the Surrealist movement, known for its exploration of the subconscious and dreamlike states. His paintings, often meticulously detailed, featured ordinary objects placed in extraordinary contexts. Think of bowler hats obscuring faces, apples filling rooms, or giant birds soaring through the sky. These juxtapositions forc...

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Amazing Belgium