Belgium

Nestled amongst the European lowlands, on the edge of the North Sea, lies Belgium. Few nations have as much to offer as this tiny country. It boasts an Old World charm, yet it is also the modern center of European government. Cultural diversity, great food, history, and art can all be found here, making it a must for any traveler's itinerary.

Belgium is located within a group of countries known as the Benelux states, comprised of itself, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. These nations have historically been known as the Low Countries. The name Belgium comes from the name that the Romans gave to the territory after they conquered it during the first century BC: Gallia Belgica. Over the next five hundred years, so many Franks moved into the area that it came to be ruled by the Merovingian dynasty. After a few hundred years more, the Carolingians took over. What is today known as the Kingdom of Belgium was variously ruled by Spain, Austria, France, the Holy Roman Empire, the Netherlands, and several other groups until the country finally won its independence in 1830.

Today, the kingdom's government combines a monarchy that is both popular and constitutional with a parliamentary democracy. The reigning king is Albert II, and the current prime minister is Yves Leterme. There are three official languages spoken within Belgian borders, and they are Dutch, French, and German. Dutch is spoken in the northern region of Flanders, French is spoken in Wallonia, in the south, and German is spoken in a few areas along the eastern border.

Besides having its own complex government, the capital city of Brussels is also the home of the European Union. This sort of makes it the unofficial capital of Europe. It also means that the country has become a melting pot for many different cultures and nationalities, with Italians, Moroccans, Spaniards, Turks, and many other immigrants having relocated to the country.

However, the country has maintained its own history and culture. Many influential artists lived and worked in the area, including Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Peter Paul Rubens and Rene Magritte. There are also a variety of traditional foods to enjoy, including mussels, rabbits, and even french fries (which Belgians claim they invented). All of this should be washed down with one of the country's excellent beers. While there are many internationally-renowned Belgian beers, there are also many varieties brewed locally which should not be overlooked. For dessert, Belgian waffles and chocolate are a must.

Because of Belgium's historic ties with so many other nations, it has always been a country of many cultures. However, since achieving its independence, it has asserted itself as a strong, unique nation with a lot to offer. The European Union, Flemish art, and great food are all worthy reasons to visit Belgium, but open-minded travelers will find even more here than expected.