Belgium’s Scholarly Heart in 1425
There is no doubt about it, the University City of Leuven has been shaped by 600 years of studenthood. With the city’s populations swelling by a third in term time it’s easy to understand why there is such a vibrant feel to it. Bars and eateries fill the centre. Groups of people sitting in the early winter sunshine, wrapped up in scarves discussing philosophy, maths and other academic pursuits. The university has also drawn students from across the world, some of whom have stayed and helped to give Leuven a deeply multi-cultural feel. All of this is set against the backdrop of some of the most astounding gothic buildings and neo-Renaissance building in Europe. Quite a combination.
Whether you are here to soak up the history, experience the gourmet cuisine or indulge in a little hearty Belgian beer and its divine chocolate, Leuven seems to have it covered.
The people of Leuven are open-minded, warm and welcoming. Something that comes naturally to a university city and is represented in cast bronze by the statue of the ‘Kotmadam’ in the Oude Markt. It is a city that opens its arms to all comers, not just allowing them to visit but inviting them to sit around the table as part of the family.
Visiting during University term-time is the best time to see the city in its full flow, meaning that October through early December and January through May are the perfect times. It feels vibrant and alive and warm welcomes await in the cities many bars and restaurants. By doing this you are also avoiding the peak seasons meaning that you can stand in front of Dirk Bouts’s 15th century masterpiece ‘The Last Supper’ without a shove, bustle or a flash temporarily blinding you. You can gawp at the staggering architecture of the Town Hall without being hustled along or being swamped by a marauding tour group.
The collection of open spaces like the Grote Markt and Oude Marktt at its heart make it the perfect place to wander the shops the centre. From sumptuous Belgian chocolate to boutique local shops, Leuven will satisfy any shopper. For the more adventurous, there are numerous walking routes laid out around the city from the ‘Highlights’ walk to the much longer (8.5km) loop around the Provincial Domain of Kessel Lo which includes Vlierbeek Abbey.
