Hotels in Brussel

Brussels has a history going back more than 1000 years and is the capital of Europe as well as of Belgium. It is a bilingual city, with both French and Dutch as official languages. Street names and traffic sings are always given in both languages, and the city is divided into French and Flemish communities. It is also a cosmopolitan city where many different cultures live together and where languages from all over the world are heard. As the European capital, the city has an important role in EU affairs, and is home to the European Commission and to the Council of ministers of the European Union. The city’s international flair is reflected in its appearance and traditions in many ways, such as in the variety of different architectural styles that are present. Brussels used to be the capital of the medieval Duchy of Brabant, and there are some beautiful buildings from this period. Gothic cathedrals and churches stand next to gracious classical facades like the buildings around the Royal Square (Place Royale - Koningsplein), as well as striking art nouveau and art deco houses. The heart of Brussels is the Grand Place or Grote Markt, and this is one of the best places to start to get to know the city. It is a historic market square, surrounded by splendid guild houses and the impressive Gothic Town Hall. Many consider it to be one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe.