As spring temperatures rise and the days grow longer, Belgium offers a cultural feast for those eager to explore its rich history and heritage. Home to 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the country invites locals and visitors alike to embark on journeys that blend history, architecture, nature, and tradition.
UNESCO World Heritage sites were created in 1972 to protect locations of “outstanding universal value.” Today, there are 1,233 such sites worldwide, ranging from cultural landmarks to natural wonders. Belgium’s 16 sites present a diverse array of experiences, from medieval cities to Neolithic mines and architectural marvels.
One of the highlights is the Belgian town of Spa, famed not only as the original source of the word “spa” but also as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. In 2021, UNESCO recognised Spa alongside nine other European towns for their longstanding tradition of mineral water treatments.
Visitors to Spa can enjoy the “pearl of the Ardennes,” sipping iron-rich waters, riding a funicular to hilltop spas, and indulging in historic copper baths. This experience connects guests to centuries-old wellness practices that continue to attract visitors.
In Wallonia, the Spiennes Neolithic Flint Mines offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric innovation. These vast mines, covering 100 hectares near Mons, are Europe’s largest flint mining complex. Their intricate underground galleries and vertical shafts reveal sophisticated Neolithic mining techniques.
Later, the mines played roles in military history, used as dugouts in the wars of Louis XIV and as flint sources for 19th-century firearms. While entry is restricted for young children, pregnant women, and some with health issues, tours are available for others, offering a rare chance to explore these ancient tunnels.
Antwerp’s Plantin-Moretus Museum is a treasure trove for history buffs and art lovers. As the world’s only surviving Renaissance printing house, it showcases Antwerp’s prominence in Europe’s 16th-century printing industry.
Named after Christopher Plantin, the museum houses a rich collection of printing equipment, an impressive library, and artworks including a piece by the famed painter Peter Paul Rubens. It highlights Antwerp’s historical role as a major hub of knowledge and culture.
The somber but significant First World War funerary and memorial sites along the Western Front also draw visitors seeking to reflect on history.
Spanning 700 kilometres across Belgium and France, 139 burial and memorial sites commemorate the countless lives lost in the war. These sites serve as places of remembrance and reconciliation, open to the public in both Wallonia and Flanders.
Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate Belgium’s contribution to modernist design through Le Corbusier’s Maison Guiette in Antwerp. Part of a collection of 17 of Le Corbusier’s works worldwide, this building represents the architect’s pioneering vision and is a must-see—at least from the outside, as public entry is not permitted.
Other notable UNESCO sites in Belgium include the Grand Place in Brussels, the Belfries of Belgium and France, the Historic Centre of Bruges, and the works of Victor Horta, among others. Whether visitors are drawn to natural beauty, architectural innovation, or poignant history, Belgium’s UNESCO sites provide enriching experiences for all.
As spring beckons, the Brussels Times encourages everyone to take advantage of these cultural gems scattered across Belgium. From the bustling heart of Brussels to the serene landscapes of Wallonia, these World Heritage sites promise unforgettable adventures steeped in heritage and history.
For more information and to plan your visit, check the official UNESCO website or regional tourism platforms.
