Belgium. Quite a lot is known about this country, in any case, everyone knows that the country is famous for its delicious chocolate, beer and shopping. Of course, for a budget tourist, it is considered not the most attractive; prices cannot be called democratic. With all this, Belgium is very colorful and hospitable, tourists are always welcome here. Many attractions and unique architecture distinguish this country from among all European powers.
Visa to Belgium on your own – a detailed life hack.
We bring to your attention a collection of the most interesting, unique and exciting facts about Belgium, after reading which every tourist can learn something new. This information will help you feel the culture and local customs, become a little more literate and learn local secrets.
History pages
Belgium is considered a direct descendant of the first state formation, which was led in the first century AD by King Clovis. Further, the territory was occupied by the Celtic tribes of the Belgi, from which the modern name of the country came.
Belgium is perhaps the only country that was donated. In 1555, the future king of Spain, Philip II, received this country as a gift from his grandfather, the Duke of Burgundy, Charles the Bold.
A grandiose defeat was inflicted on Napoleon by the Congress of Vienna in 1815 precisely at the Belgian village of Waterloo. Subsequently, 124 cities in all countries of the world changed their name and became namesakes of the Brussels suburb.
It was the capital Brussels that became the main city of the modern trade and economic union of European countries – the EU. The city was awarded such a high honor, taking into account the significant contribution made by Belgium, as one of the main initiators of the creation and creator of the European Commonwealth. This is where the headquarters of NATO is located.
Records and uniqueness
Belgium claims to be the leading chocolate producer. According to official statistics, more than 220 thousand tons of various types of chocolate sweets are produced annually. Well, the most famous point of sale of local chocolate is the Belgian airport. It is from here that millions of chocolates and bars fly to all corners of the world. But this does not mean that chocolate is produced for export. The Belgians are also not averse to feasting on this source of happiness hormones. The average Belgian consumes 22 kg of chocolate per year.
Belgium also made a serious bid for leadership in the “beer relay race”. And this is not surprising, because today more than 800 varieties of beer are produced in the country. And an ordinary resident of the country annually consumes up to 150 liters of this intoxicating drink. In 1999, a beer academy was even opened, which is located in the town of Herk-de-Stad.
Belgium is considered one of those countries in which there is the most loyal attitude towards “euthanasia”. This innovation was introduced in 2002, and since that moment, up to 7 people on average say goodbye to life every day.
Local marriage authorities will help to register a marriage between two men without any questions, but forced marriages are not only prohibited here, but prosecuted by law.
Another record is associated with the Belgian Parliament. It is in this government body, in the positions of ministers, that a record number of women work.
Belgian highways are the only man-made structure that can be seen from the surface of the moon. All thanks to the huge number of lights located along the roadway.
Other interesting facts
If you want to buy a unique diamond or work on an existing gem that has been passed down from generation to generation, you will not find a better place on the entire planet than Belgium. It is this country that is recognized as the main center for the sale and processing of diamonds.
Belgians have a record number of pets in their homes. It is difficult to find a house in which a couple of cats or dogs would not live.
Loyal attitude of local authorities to soft drugs. For example, anyone over the age of 18 has every right to carry up to 3 grams of cannabis. And according to statistics, every year up to 24 million ecstasy tablets find their place in the stomachs of the Belgians.
Belgian families, more than any other nation, depend on cable television. Such broadcasting is found in 98% of households. And the famous Manneken Pis landmark has 600 different costumes at once, which are worn on the occasion of anniversaries, holidays and city celebrations.