Belgium. 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 not considered the most attractive; prices cannot be called democratic. With all this, Belgium is very colorful and hospitable, tourists are always welcome here. Many sights 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 to feel the culture and local customs, become a little more literate and learn local secrets.
Pages of history
Belgium is considered a direct descendant of the first state formation, which was ruled back in the first century AD by King Clovis. Further, the territory was occupied by the Celtic tribes of the Belgians, 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.
The grandiose defeat of Napoleon was inflicted by the Congress of Vienna in 1815 at the Belgian village of Waterloo. Subsequently, 124 cities in all countries of the world changed their name and became the namesake of the Brussels suburb.
It is the capital of Brussels that has become 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 and creator of the European Commonwealth. The headquarters of NATO is also located here.
Records and uniqueness
Belgium claims to be the leading chocolate maker. 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 for 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. Belgians are also not averse to feasting on this source of happiness hormones. The average Belgian consumes 22 kg of chocolate a year.
Belgium also made a serious bid for leadership in the "beer relay". And this is not surprising, because today more than 800 types 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 Stade.
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 then, on average, up to 7 people 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 just prohibited here, but are prosecuted.
Another record is associated with the Belgian parliament. It is in this government body, in ministerial posts, that a record number of women work.
The Belgian Highways are the only man-made engineering structure that can be seen from the lunar surface. All thanks to the huge number of lanterns located along the roadway.
Other interesting facts
If you want to buy a unique diamond or cut an existing gem that has been passed down from generation to generation, you cannot 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.
There is a record number of pets in the homes of the Belgians. It is difficult to find a home that does not have a couple of cats or dogs.
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 Belgians.
Belgian families are more dependent on cable TV than any other nation. Such broadcasting is found in 98% of households. And the famous landmark "Manneken Pis" has 600 different costumes at once, which are dressed on the occasion of memorable dates, holidays and city celebrations.
