Belgium — map and facts

Belgium is a small, densely populated country in Western Europe at the crossroads of Germanic and Latin cultures. Its capital is Brussels, which also hosts the key institutions of the European Union, and the country covers about 30,500 square kilometres with a population of roughly 11.6 million. Belgium uses the euro as its currency.

About Belgium

Belgium is a federal constitutional monarchy divided into three communities — Flemish, French-speaking and German-speaking — and is known for its complex political structure. It is one of the founding members of the European Union and home to its principal institutions, as well as NATO headquarters. Despite its small size, Belgium has a significant industrial base and a highly internationalised service economy.

Geography and landscape

Belgium borders France to the south and south-west, Luxembourg to the south-east, Germany to the east, the Netherlands to the north, and the North Sea to the north-west. The landscape rises from the flat coastal polders and sandy dunes in the north-west, through rolling central plateaus and river valleys, to the forested hills of the Ardennes in the south-east. The Meuse and Scheldt rivers are the major waterways. The highest point is Signal de Botrange at 694 metres.

History

Belgium's territory has been a contested crossroads for centuries, ruled by Burgundian, Habsburg, Spanish, Austrian and French powers in succession. After Napoleon's defeat it was joined with the Netherlands in the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, but declared independence in 1830. The country industrialised rapidly in the nineteenth century and was heavily affected by both World Wars, its territory serving as a major battleground in each. Belgium played a founding role in European integration from the 1950s onward.

Economy and currency

Belgium has a highly internationalised economy with strengths in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, steel and logistics. The port of Antwerp is one of the busiest in the world. Brussels is a major centre for European affairs and international business. The currency is the euro, which replaced the Belgian franc in 2002.

Culture and language

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish) in the north, French in the south and around Brussels, and German in a small eastern region. The country is known internationally for chocolate, beer (with centuries of brewing tradition and hundreds of recognised styles), waffles and comic art — Tintin and The Smurfs both originated here. Art Nouveau architecture is a prominent feature of Brussels.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Belgium? The capital of Belgium is Brussels (Brussel/Bruxelles). It is also the seat of key European Union institutions including the European Commission and the European Council, and of NATO headquarters.

What currency is used in Belgium? Belgium uses the euro. It replaced the Belgian franc in 2002.

How many official languages does Belgium have? Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French and German.