10 Unexpected Destinations in Belgium

Prepare to be amazed as we unveil a side of Belgium you never knew existed.

In Flanders Fields

Delve into Belgium's rich history as we explore Unesco Heritage sites from World War I that still bear witness to the tumultuous past. From the somber trenches of Ypres to the poignant memorials scattered across the countryside, Belgium stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the Great War.

West Flanders

One of the largest Commonwealth cemeteries in the world

Tyne Cot Cemetery is the largest British military cemetery in continental Europe. More than 10,000 soldiers who died at the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917 during the First World War were buried in the monumental cemetery in Passchendaele.

West Flanders

Berlin

The Grieving Parents in Vladslo

German soldier Peter Kollwitz was not yet 18 years old when he was killed on 23 October 1914 while attempting to cross the Yser near Diksmuide.

West Flanders

The place where John McCrae wrote 'In Flanders Fields'

In early May 1915, Canadian doctor and poet John McCrae wrote the world-famous poem 'In Flanders Fields' from a medical aid station a stone's throw from Ypres.

Vennbahn

Embark on a unique journey along the Vennbahn, a historic railway line transformed into a scenic cycling route.

Belgium

Germany

Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Exploring the historical Vennbahn railway

Coal trains, military transports and steam locomotives across the High Fens have made way for cyclists on the historic Vennbahn—a report of the route between the German city Aachen and Waismes, in Belgium.

Liège

Railway heritage at Sourbrodt station

A turntable, signal box, rails and mechanical signals: the former station of Sourbrodt along the Vennbahn treats you to unique historical railway heritage.

Liège

Lommersweiler tunnels

Height differences in the landscape, forests, or rivers? In the late nineteenth century, nothing could stop the construction of railway line 47 between Sankt Vith and Troisvierges in Luxembourg. Along with railway line 48, this route formed the historic Vennbahn, where iron ores and coal were transported.

Belgium's industrial monuments stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era of innovation and progress. From the towering chimneys of former factories to the colossal blast furnaces that once roared with activity, these architectural marvels tell the story of Belgium's industrial might. Today, many of these monuments have been repurposed, transformed into cultural centers, museums, and art spaces, preserving their historical significance while breathing new life into their surroundings.

Belgium

An almost fully preserved coal mine in Limburg

With its two headframes, water towers, bathing rooms, coal washeries and unloading floors, the Beringen coal mine is the most complete mining site in the Belgian coal region Limburg.

Belgium

The last mine in the Benelux

On September 30, 1992, the Limburg 'Charbonnages d'Helchteren-Zolder' dug up the last lump of coal in the Benelux.

Architecture landmarks

As your journey through Belgium's architectural wonders comes to a close, don't miss the opportunity to explore two lesser-known yet equally fascinating landmarks: the Sanatorium in Overijse and the Sanitary Underwear Company in Zottegem.

The Sanatorium, nestled amidst serene woodlands, showcases the striking modernist design of the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the country's medical history while providing a serene retreat for contemplation.

Meanwhile, the Sanitary Underwear Company in Zottegem stands as a testament to Belgium's industrial heritage, telling the story of the region's textile manufacturing past. It was one of the first concrete constructions in Belgium. The concrete skeleton structure was filled with bricks, while the flat roofs were bordered with concrete barriers.

Flemish Brabant

Modernist sanatorium near Brussels

The Joseph Lemaire sanatorium in the Belgian town of Overijse is one of the most famous modernist sanatoriums in the world.

Belgium

Traces of the textile industry in Zottegem

Over the course of the twentieth century, the Sanitary Underwear Company emerged as the second-largest textile factory in Zottegem, East Flanders.

These architectural gems offer a unique perspective on Belgium's diverse heritage, providing a fitting finale to your exploration of the country's rich architectural tapestry.

10 Unexpected Destinations in Belgium

In Flanders Fields

Vennbahn

Architecture landmarks

Industrial Heritage

Dark tourism