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The four great cities of northern Belgium share a rich cultural heritage dating back to medieval times, when this was one of the most vibrant trading regions in the world. Yet each is very different: Brussels is the new Capital of Europe, while Bruges is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities. Ghent is a historic university city, while Antwerp still has the muscular stance of a great industrial centre. Each, in its own way, is richly rewarding – not only in cultural sights, but also in delightful and welcoming places to stay, eat and drink.
For a list of the best art galleries and museums (see Art Galleries and Museums)-
Reflecting the huge popularity of comic-strip books in Belgium – and, indeed, most of continental Europe – this unique “Belgian Centre of the Comic Strip” is a shrine to the art form. Archive material and other exhibits focus above all on Belgian contributors to the genre – most notably, of course, on Hergé, the creator of Tintin (see Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée).
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Victor Horta designed the Magasins Wauquez, a textile shop, in 1903. Rescued in the 1970s, it has found new life as the famous comic-strip museum (see Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée).
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As the Belgian Centre of the Comic Strip is the first to admit, comic strips were not invented in Belgium, but the nation has certainly taken them to its heart, and produced a string of gifted artist-writers, the most famous being Hergé, creator of Tintin. The museum is in an Art Nouveau building by Horta (see Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée).
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The “Comic Strip Centre” reveals all about this very Belgian art form: Tintin and beyond (see Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée).
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Older children will be intrigued by this unusual, somewhat specialist museum; younger children may not be, especially if they speak neither French nor Dutch (see Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée).
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Organist and composer (1822–90) in the Romantic tradition.
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Austrian governor-general (ruled 1744–80) credited with bringing the Age of Enlightenment to Brussels.
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Born in Ghent, Charles V (1500–58) forged the largest empire in Europe since Roman times. His press is mixed.
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Youth hotel in a converted cinema, fronted by a big, raucous café-bar serving nachos and burgers to the beat of rock. Basic rooms, but keenly priced – especially given the location, just to the east of the Burg.
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Established in 1893, thismoules-frites specialist is now an international brand.
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Restaurant price categories
For a three-course meal for one with with half a bottle of wine for (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
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Hotel price categories
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
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