Country of foreign Europe: Belgium. Economic and geographical position Belgium position in relation to the main land

Belgium is a country in Western Europe. It has an area of 30,528 km², washed in the northwest by the North Sea. Most of the country is occupied by plains with predominant cultural landscapes.

The total length of land borders is 1,385 km, the length of borders with France is 620 km, Germany is 167 km, Luxembourg is 148 km, and the Netherlands is 450 km. Coastline has a length of 66.5 km. The total area of the territory is 33,990 km², of which the coastal zone covers 3,462 km² and inland waters 250 km².

1. Kingdom Belgium

Royaume de Belgique – Koninkrijk Belgie. Geographical position: located in Western Europe, on the coast of the North Sea. Territory - 30,530 sq. km. Population: 10,010,000 people, incl. Flanders - 5.9 million people, Wallonia - 3.3 million people. Capital: Brussels - Bruxelles (Brussel) - 951 thousand people. (with suburbs). The largest city is Antwerp (466,000). The highest point is Mount Botrange (694 m). The official languages are Dutch (Flemish), French, German. The main religion is Christianity. Currency: Belgian franc = 100 centimes. The main export items are iron, steel, engineering products, chemicals, foodstuffs, and plastics. The form of government is a federal constitutional monarchy. Administrative division– 3 regions: Brussels, Wallonia, Flanders, which are divided into 10 provinces (5 each in Flanders and Wallonia), and the provinces into communes. National holidays: July 21 - King's Oath Day (1831), November 15 - Day royal dynasty(1866). Diplomatic relations with the USSR were established on July 12, 1935. In December 1991 Russian Federation recognized as the successor of the USSR.

The coastal regions of Belgium occupy low-lying plains suitable for agriculture. They gradually move into the fertile high plains in the center of the country and the wooded Ardennes mountains in the southeast. For many centuries, the Scheldt and Meuse rivers have been important trade routes.

The length of Belgium's natural borders is small, and the country has often served as a ground for the fighting of neighboring states: Fraction, Germany and Britain. Throughout its history, this country has been united with the Netherlands and Luxembourg. During the Middle Ages, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg flourished thanks to intensive trade. But then followed years of wars and foreign domination. In 1830, Belgium finally gained independence. Soon she became rich due to the development of industry and the colonization of Africa. During the First and Second World Wars, Belgium was badly damaged, but quickly restored its economy. Today it is one of the most highly developed industrial countries in Europe. Belgium maintains very close economic ties with others European countries, and in its capital, Brussels, is the headquarters of the European Union of States.

2. Government of Belgium

The Kingdom of Belgium is a federal state, a constitutional parliamentary monarchy. The Belgian constitution of February 7, 1831 is in force, with the last amendments of July 14, 1993, when the constitutional reform was approved by the Belgian Parliament state structure country, which completed the process of its federalization, begun in the 70s. The current version of the constitution was published on February 3, 1994. The federal state consists of three regions with broad autonomy - Flanders, Wallonia and the Brussels-Capital Region (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussel) and three linguistic communities: Flemish, French and German (Flemish, French, German) . The competence of communities and regions is delimited.

The head of state is the king. His power is limited by the constitution. Article 106 of the constitution states: "No act of the King is valid unless it is signed by the minister, who thereby alone assumes responsibility." Article 102 notes that "in no case shall the King's oral or written command relieve the minister of responsibility". This ensures the principle formulated in the 88th article: “The person of the King is inviolable; its ministers are responsible."

Legislative power is exercised jointly by the king and a bicameral parliament, consisting of the House of Representatives (150 deputies) and the Senate (71 senators and Crown Prince Philip, Duke of Brabant, who is a "senator by right"). Members of the House of Representatives are elected by the people by direct and secret ballot under the system of proportional representation. The Senate is formed from: 40 senators elected by the population by direct vote (25 from Flanders and from the Flemish population of the Brussels region and 15 from Wallonia and from the French-speaking population of the Brussels region); 21 senators appointed by the regional parliaments from among their deputies (10 each from Flanders and Wallonia and 1 from the German-speaking community); 10 co-opted senators (6 from Flanders and 4 from Wallonia). Adult children of the king can be senators by right. In October 1996, Princess Astrid announced her desire to take a seat in the Senate. The term of office of both chambers is 4 years. The federal parliament approves the federal government. Almost all the prerogatives of the national parliament - expressing no confidence in the government, approving the budget, approving laws - remain with the House of Representatives, while the role of the Senate is reduced to settling disputes between regional authorities, amending the constitution and approving international treaties.

Regional parliaments:

Brussels Regional Council BRC. Parliament of the bilingual region. Consists of 75 deputies elected by the people of Brussels and the surrounding communities by direct vote for a term of five years. Forms the government of the capital region. The authorities of the Brussels-Capital Region, within the framework of their powers, manage the territory inhabited by the population of the French-speaking and Flemish communities.

Walloon Regional Council. Consists of 75 deputies elected by direct vote for a term of five years in the southern French-speaking part of Belgium. Forms the government of Wallonia, which is located in Namur.

Flemish Regional Council. It is both the parliament of the Flanders region and the Flemish language community. Consists of 124 deputies, of which 118 are elected for a term of five years by direct vote in Flanders, and 6 deputies are appointed by the Brussels Regional Council from among the Flemish deputies of the Parliament of Brussels, since the Flemish linguistic community also includes Brussels speaking Dutch. The council forms the government of Flanders, which operates in Brussels.

Council of the Francophone Community. The only indirectly elected parliament: it automatically included 75 deputies from the Walloon Regional Council and 16 Francophone deputies from the Brussels Regional Council. He forms the government of the French language community, which meets in Brussels. The government and parliament of the French-speaking community are in charge of matters within their competence in the territory of Wallonia, except for the eastern cantons, and also, together with the Flemish community, in the bilingual Brussels region.

Council of the German-speaking community. Consists of 25 deputies elected by direct vote for a term of 5 years. German-speaking Belgians live in the eastern cantons, which are territorially part of Wallonia. Forms a government with seat in Eupen.

Previously, deputies of the national parliament, elected from a particular region, automatically became members of regional parliaments. Now it is forbidden to combine two deputy mandates and only direct election of deputies of regional parliaments is allowed.

Executive power is exercised by the king and the federal government, which is appointed by the king and is responsible to the House of Representatives of the federal parliament. The number of members of the federal government (Council of Ministers) must not exceed 15 ministers. With the exception of the Prime Minister, Flemings and Francophones must be equally represented. The competence of the federal government extends only to the federal level and includes a limited range of issues. This is national defense foreign policy, maintenance of internal order, national finances, main directions economic development, the federal system of social protection, justice, health care, the largest institutions of science and culture of national importance.

The powers of local authorities have been expanded. To the areas already assigned to the scope of their activities are added Agriculture, the conclusion of international agreements, Scientific research and foreign trade.

3. Macroeconomics of Belgium

The growth of the gross domestic product in 1998 was expected to be 2.7%, i.e. e. at a level close enough to the record recent years- 2.9% in 1997. In subsequent years, GDP growth will also remain at a relatively high level, although it will have a natural downward trend (2.4% in 1999, 2.6% in 2000). The level of GDP production will largely depend on the country's readiness to withstand growing competition within the EU. Increased domestic demand is beginning to act as the main engine of economic growth. Personal consumption, already in 1997 at its highest level in a decade (2.1%), increased even more in 1998 (2.3%). This is facilitated by the continued improvement in the situation on the labor market, extremely low inflation, moderate wage growth - factors that strengthen consumer confidence and increase real incomes of the population. Favorable conditions in the domestic market affected both the industrial sector and the service sector. In this regard, in 1998 there is no doubt that gross capital investments will continue to grow (up to 6.6%), including industrial investments (by 6.3%).

Geographic location of Belgium

A small state of foreign Europe, located on the eastern coast of the North Sea. Not counting the sea area, the area of the kingdom is $30.5 thousand sq. km. Land borders in the north they pass with the Netherlands, with Germany and Luxembourg - in the east, in the south and southwest the kingdom borders on France. The total length of the boundaries is $1,385$ km.

By tradition, Belgium is divided into $3 $ geographic region. These include:

The coastal plain located in the northwest;
Low central plateau;
Arden Hill.

coastal plain- this is low Belgium with a height of up to $ 100 $ m above sea level, represented by dunes and polders.

Heights rise up to $200$ m central plateau This is middle Belgium.

High Belgium represents Ardennes elevation. Its height reaches $500$ m.

Definition 1

polders- These are low-lying areas of land protected from floods by dams.

The country has Mount Botrange, whose height is $ 694 $ m - this is the highest place in Belgium. There are also rivers, the largest of which are the Scheldt and the Meuse, originating in France. Both rivers are connected by canals. On the geographical map Belgium looks like a small triangle, but is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe. The average density of the country is $328$ people per sq km. This small country impresses with the diversity of its landscapes. The Ardennes, of medium height, cut by abysses and gorges, flaunt in the southeast of the country. They are a continuation of the Rhine Slate Mountains. On the border with Germany are the most high peaks. The mountains in the north are skirted by the most famous river in Europe - the Meuse. The slopes of the mountains are covered with forest, and the serpentine road connects small villages.

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Coursework 450 rubles.
abstract Belgium: geographical location, economy and attractions 250 rub.
Test Belgium: geographical location, economy and attractions 230 rub.

The Belgian population is divided into 3 linguistic communities:

French community;
Flemish Community;
German speaking community.

Therefore, there are also three official languages - French, Flemish, German.

Languages are distributed throughout the territory as follows:

In the north of the country in Flanders, more than $5 million people use Flemish;
In the south of the country - Wallonia - more than $ 3 million people communicate in French;
Common in eastern Wallonia German, which is spoken by $67$ thousand people.

To enter Belgium, you need to apply for a Schengen visa. The Belgians are mostly - $70% - Catholics, many Protestants and Jews, $2$% Muslims.

Economy of Belgium, priority sectors

Remark 1

The Kingdom of Belgium is a small, highly developed industrial country in Europe, where industry and agriculture are intensively developing. Developed transport infrastructure, big cities and ports not only of European but also of international importance, large industrial enterprises. The kingdom exports half of its industrial and agricultural products.

The country is a world exporter of ferrous and non-ferrous metals and is one of the world leaders in the chemical industry. The leading branches of mechanical engineering are car assembly, electrical and radio-electronic industries. In the field of energy, the leading industry is the nuclear industry. $2$ nuclear power plants operate on the territory of the country. The bowels of the country do not have large reserves of mineral resources, so the extractive sector is not functioning. Back in the $80s of the last century, coal mining was completely stopped. Belgium imports hydrocarbons from the Middle East, from the Netherlands, from Algeria. France, USA, Canada, South Africa supply uranium concentrates, coal - USA and South Africa. The woodworking industry is also developing on imported raw materials; its supplies come from China, Germany, and Finland.

The economy of the Belgian regions varies greatly, for example, the Flemish and Walloon economies differ in many aspects. Own distinctive features Belgian cities also have an economy. Cities such as Liege, Mons, Charleroi, Namur are among the largest industrial centers.

In the country's economy, a large place is given to food industry. Belgium hosts such global groups as Danone, InBev, Coca-Cola, Unilever Belgium, Kraft Foods Belgium, Nestlé, Materne, Ferrero and others.

highly developed biotechnological a sector in which more than $200$ of biotech companies are involved. In order for this industry to develop successfully, strong ties have been established between the main economic players, universities, and research centers. In the European Union, Belgian companies account for $16% of the industry's turnover. Approximately $10$% of expenses are spent on research and development activities.

Its automotive there is no industry in the country. The absence of the industry is compensated by the placement of large car assembly plants. This is facilitated by low duties on imports of car parts and, secondly, is the availability of highly qualified personnel. $1 million cars roll off the conveyors of assembly plants every year. Strong positions in the automotive industry in the country are provided by such plants as Ford Genk, Audi Forest-Brussels, Volvo Europa, Van Hool (buses) and Truco.

Belgium is perfect for logistics base. A full-fledged environment for attacking the European market is provided by infrastructure, skills, and IT tools. Brussels - the capital of Belgium - is a strategic location, an attractive real estate market for the main offices of the largest European corporations. Brussels is where the main organs of the European Union are located, where all the most important decisions are made. The headquarters of numerous American and Japanese multinational corporations are also located in the Belgian capital.

Definition 2

In general, for Belgium, the leading sectors of the economy are such as mechanical engineering, in particular the automotive industry, the chemical industry, microelectronics, pharmaceuticals, metallurgy, and the diamond complex.

Landmarks of a small country

A small speck on the geographical map is Belgium, but, nevertheless, the country deserves to be paid attention to. The cultural and political life of the kingdom is characterized by the word "tolerance".

On its territory there is a lot of things that you can and should see:

Cathedral Notre Dame. The cathedral is located in the city of Tournai and it is impossible to pass by this majestic architecture. The simplicity and elegance of the Gothic design are striking immediately. The cathedral has preserved unique examples of medieval painting;

architectural structure Atomium located in the capital of Belgium - Brussels. From the observation deck of the Atomium you can admire the beautiful park "Europe in Miniature". There are also exhibitions and museums where you can see the life of the Belgians in the $50$ years. You can visit the Atomium only in order to see with your own eyes a model of an iron molecule magnified $165 million times;

waterloo. Everyone who is fond of history remembers well that in $1815 the allied Anglo-Dutch army under the command of the Duke of Wellington and the Prussian troops under the command of Marshal Blucher defeated Napoleon's army in this place. The complex accurately conveys the spirit of the Napoleonic era. There is also a wax museum in the complex, where you can see not only the commanders-in-chief of that time, but also the emperor of France himself;

Manneken Pis. The statue of the boy is located in Brussels and needs no introduction. By the way, the boy's name is Julien, he follows fashion and has more than $2,000 of suits in his own wardrobe.

Remark 2

Of course, these are not all the sights of Belgium, there are much more of them. The Belgians are proud of their cultural values and take good care of them.

Geographic location of Belgium

A small state of foreign Europe, located on the eastern coast of the North Sea. Not counting the sea area, the area of the kingdom is $30.5 thousand sq. km. Land borders in the north pass with the Netherlands, with Germany and Luxembourg - in the east, in the south and southwest the kingdom borders on France. The total length of the boundaries is $1,385$ km.

Traditionally, Belgium is divided into $3$ geographic regions. These include:

The coastal plain located in the northwest;
Low central plateau;
Arden Hill.

coastal plain- this is low Belgium with a height of up to $ 100 $ m above sea level, represented by dunes and polders.

Heights rise up to $200$ m central plateau This is middle Belgium.

High Belgium represents Ardennes elevation. Its height reaches $500$ m.

Definition 1

polders- These are low-lying areas of land protected from floods by dams.

The country has Mount Botrange, whose height is $ 694 $ m - this is the highest place in Belgium. There are also rivers, the largest of which are the Scheldt and the Meuse, originating in France. Both rivers are connected by canals. On a geographical map, Belgium looks like a small triangle, but it is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe. The average density of the country is $328$ people per sq km. This small country impresses with the diversity of its landscapes. The Ardennes, of medium height, cut by abysses and gorges, flaunt in the southeast of the country. They are a continuation of the Rhine Slate Mountains. On the border with Germany are the highest peaks. The mountains in the north are skirted by the most famous river in Europe - the Meuse. The slopes of the mountains are covered with forest, and the serpentine road connects small villages.

Ready-made works on a similar topic

Coursework 480 rubles.
abstract Belgium: geographical location, economy and attractions 280 rub.
Test Belgium: geographical location, economy and attractions 200 rub.

The Belgian population is divided into 3 linguistic communities:

French community;
Flemish Community;
German speaking community.

Therefore, there are also three official languages - French, Flemish, German.

Languages are distributed throughout the territory as follows:

In the north of the country in Flanders, more than $5 million people use Flemish;
In the south of the country - Wallonia - more than $ 3 million people communicate in French;
In the eastern part of Wallonia, the German language is spoken by $67 thousand people.

To enter Belgium, you need to apply for a Schengen visa. The Belgians are mostly - $70% - Catholics, many Protestants and Jews, $2$% Muslims.

Economy of Belgium, priority sectors

Remark 1

The Kingdom of Belgium is a small, highly developed industrial country in Europe, where industry and agriculture are intensively developing. Developed transport infrastructure, large cities and ports of not only European but also international importance, large industrial enterprises. The kingdom exports half of its industrial and agricultural products.

The economy of the Belgian regions varies greatly, for example, the Flemish and Walloon economies differ in many aspects. Belgian cities also have their own distinctive features in the economy. Cities such as Liege, Mons, Charleroi, Namur are among the largest industrial centers.

Definition 2

Landmarks of a small country

On its territory there is a lot of things that you can and should see:

Remark 2

Of course, these are not all the sights of Belgium, there are much more of them. The Belgians are proud of their cultural values and take good care of them.

Geographical position

Belgium located in Western Europe, on the eastern coast of the North Sea. She is borders on the north With the Netherlands,in the east- With Germany and Luxembourg, on South and southwest borders with France.Total length of the border is 1,385 km.In North-west the territory of the country is washed by the waters North Sea.total area territory of Belgium is 30.5 thousand sq. km.

On the territory of the country, it is traditionally customary to allocate three main geographic regions: coastal plain, central plateau and Arden Upland. coastal plain located in the northwest of Belgium. It is represented by dunes and polders. polders are low-lying areas of land that are protected from floods by means of dams. Average height above sea level this region is about 10 meters. central plateau is a low area of the country, which is formed by fertile plains. Arden Upland is a plateau covered with forests. His average height is about 460 meters. This site is located in the southeast of Belgium.

highest point within the country is Mount Botrange 694 meters high. Major rivers Belgium - Scheldt and Maas that start in France. They are interconnected by channels.

capital is the city Brussels.

Climate in Belgium temperate maritime. Warm weather lasts May to September. in winter It snows quite often.

On the coast January average temperature is +3 C, in the Ardennes - 1C. July average temperature on the coast is +19 C, in the Ardennes- +14 C.

On the plains falls annually 700-900 mm rainfall, in mountainous areas - 1200-1500 mm. Relative humidity is quite high throughout the year.

Summer enough in Belgium cool and cloudy. Winter cloudy and wet.

The rainiest months are April and november. Constantly blowing west and southwest winds.

In summer, the weather can deteriorate due to cool, moist winds from the Atlantic.

Visas, entry rules, customs rules

Belgium is member of the Schengen agreement.Citizens of Russia to enter the country necessary design Schengen visa. Also need have current passport, health insurance policy, amount of money enough to stay in the country.

Import and export currency can without Borders. Amounts exceeding 10 thousand euros, must be declared.

duty free you can import into the country a small amount of tobacco and tobacco products, as well as alcohol, coffee, tea, perfumes and goods for personal use and gold items and jewelry weighing no more than 500 grams.

To the territory of the EU countries it is forbidden import any products that contain meat or milk. This prohibition even applies to chocolate. Exception are only baby food and special preparations for chronic patients.

special permission is required for the import into the country of medications, drugs and drug-containing drugs, weapons and pornographic materials, as well as animals and birds, various types of plants and products from them. Plants, animals and plant products necessary present to quarantine officials. For pets required all necessary information. It is forbidden to take out of the country things and objects that have historical or artistic value.

Population, political condition

Population Belgium is about 10.26 million people. In my own way ethnic composition The country's population is quite diverse. Most of it constitute Flemings(58%) and Walloons(32.5%). There are also large communities of immigrants from Asia and Southeast Europe.

Politically, Belgium is federal constitutional monarchy. head of state is king. Legislature concentrated in the hands bicameral parliament, which consists of House of Representatives and Senate.

Administratively, the entire territory of the country is divided into 3 regions(Flemish, Walloon and metropolitan area Brussels) and 9 provinces: Antwerp, Brabant, East Flanders, West Flanders, Liege, Limburg, Luxembourg, Namur and Hainaut.

There are about 1 million inhabitants in the capital. Population of major cities: Brussels(1,122,000 people), Antwerp(470,000 people), Ghent(231000 people), Charleroi(207000 people) and Liege(195000 people).

Regions have a large number of autonomous rights. They are under control local executive authorities - assemblies.

In Belgium there is three official languages -Flemish, Deutsch and French. Dutch language is common in Flanders, French - in Wallonia.

Flemish similar to Dutch and has several dialects. Belgian French characterized by a characteristic local pronunciation and the use of a large number of dialect words. In tourist areas widespread English language.

de facto head of state is Prime Minister.Composition of the government approved by the king and parliament. As required by the country's constitution, one half ministers should be from the Dutch-speaking community, a second half - representatives of the French-speaking community.

Belgium is divided into judicial cantons and districts. Heads judicial system Supreme Court.

Belgium is a member of the 70 international organizations.Included in EEC and NATO.

What to watch

Belgium attracts numerous tourists with an abundance of its sights, historical and cultural monuments. In all the cities of this country you can see something interesting.

Capital Brussels is cultural and political center of Belgium and the European Community. The locals are used to calling the old part of the city "Pentagon". This is due to the fact that it is surrounded by ring boulevards. These boulevards were built on the site where the old defensive structures were located.

Grand Place(Grotemarkt or Big square) is the largest and most famous square in the city. On it stands the building of the old Town Hall "Hotel de Ville". This building is interesting for its 15th-century weather vane, which depicts St. Michael slaying the dragon. The square is also Broadhus with city museum. Here you can also see the old quarter, in which each building has its own name.

On the Etuve street, near the Grand Place, you can see the most famous fountain in Brussels -Mannequin Pis ("Manneken Pis"), which refers to XVII century. Here is also Palace of Nations, wherein Parliament is in session.

In addition to Manneken Pis, Brussels has "Peeing Girl" and even "Pissing Dog".

West of Grand Place located Exchange and Opera Monet, which is one of the most prestigious European stages. Here you can also visit Place Rogier and Church of St. Catherine. The building of the church stands on the square of the same name, which is surrounded by old houses of the 17th-18th centuries. and lively central boulevards.

On the site of the old canal today is located popular walking area with two small ponds and a picturesque Church of John the Baptist built in the 17th century.

very popular tourists use Royal Galleries of St. Hubert, which can be found between Marche-au-Erbe and Ecuille streets. They were built in 1847 and became the first European architectural complex with covered galleries. Today there are many shops, cafes and theaters.

famous landmark is and Cathedral of St. Michael(XIII-XVI centuries). Within the territory of " Classic Quarter" located Palace Square With royal palace and Palace of the Academies. Here tourists can visit Royal Square, Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, Sacré-Coeur Basilica of Kokelberg, Church of St. James and Palace of Justice.

Museum Square so named because it is surrounded by museums. On it stands Palace of Charles of Lorraine. Many people come here to see the famous " Failure". It is an illuminated well in which some exhibits are exhibited Museum of Modern Art.

South of Royal Square stretched out quarters of the Bolshoi and Small Sablon. Worthy of note here Egmont Palace, minim church and picturesque Church of Notre-Dame-de-Victoire-du-Sablon XVI century, built in the Gothic style.

"Brussels park"was previously royal hunting park. Today it is a beautiful park in the French style. It contains such architectural monuments as: Royal Palace, Palace of Justice, headquarters of the Bank of Brussels Lambert, Parliament complex and park theater.

Southeast part of the city is business. famous Cambrai Abbey was built in the XIII-XVIII century. Currently hosted here National Geographic Institute and Cambrian graduate School fine arts.

In the northeastern part of the capital worth to visit Botanical Garden. Here there is Sainte Marie church. In place of the old Malebec covered market today is the city concert hall.

In the western part of the city Deserves attention Church of Notre Dame de Laiken. Palace of Leopold II(XVIII century) is known for unique Royal greenhouses relating to XIX century.Park "Mini Europe" also very popular with tourists. It has installed Atomium, which is a model of an iron molecule magnified several million times. In this park you can see all the famous European cathedrals. Not far from here you can visit tropical swimming pool "Oceadium".

In Anderlecht worth to visit Erasmus Museum of Rotterdam, located on Chapitre street. Also interesting birsel castle(XIV century), royal castle Gaasbeek and Konstant Vanden Stock Stadium.

The most interesting museums in the city can be called: Royal Museum of Fine Arts, with a large collection of masterpieces of world art, Aeronautics Museum, Porcelain Museumat the Royal Greenhouses, Municipal Museum in the building of the Royal Palace, richest Museum of Musical Instruments, Royal Army Museum and military history , private car museum in " 50th Anniversary Park".

Antwerp is capital city of the province of the same name. it second largest port in Europe. Antwerp is also known as world's largest diamond cutting center. There are also many interesting monuments of architecture, culture and history.

Worth to visit Royal Museum of Art. Mayer van den Bergh Museum("Costume Jewelry Museum") is one of the most interesting and richest museums in the city.

The city also has such museums as: house-museum of Rubens and Plantin-Moretus Museum, Diamond Museum,Folklore Museum,Museum "Dwelling of virgins" and Museums of Folk Art and Ethnography.

The most beautiful churches can be called Cathedral of Our Lady, Church of St. James and St. Charles Borromeo.

noteworthy royal castle Gaasbeek, Opera and Flanders ballet, as well as Antwerp Zoo.

Fortress Sten is the oldest building in the city. It currently operates Maritime Museum. Tourists with great pleasure walk along the pedestrian street, the central the Grote Markt, embankment and South Terrace of Scheldt and Linkeruver. Left bank of the Scheldt river was built up designed by Corbusier.

In Meir worth visiting the old Royal Palace, which refers to XVIII century, picturesque Burla theater rotunda and Church of St. James.

Borenbond Tower is the country's first skyscraper. Quite interesting and old Schoonmarkt shoe market.

In the South Quarter picturesque Leopold-Waalplats Square and Marnixplats, as well as esplanade of the Museum of Fine Arts. Flemish and Walloon embankments are very busy parts of the city. Nearby are art galleries.

There are a lot of entertainment venues of various types in Antwerp: restaurants, bars, cafes, nightclubs etc. Most entertainment can be found near Central Square and railway station.

Outskirts of Antwerp There are also a number of attractions: cultural complex "Singel", house Guyet. On Morkensplein there is a town hall Borgerhout, which has 47 bells.

In Middelheim park you can see the real open-air museum. Landscape compositions with modern sculptures are exhibited here.

In Derna worth visiting two castles. One of them, Sterckhof, is interesting because it contains Museum of Arts and Crafts. There is also a magnificent park, which is considered one of the most picturesque parks in the country.

vintage" Fort VII", built in 1860, today is a natural park-reserve. It is home to a huge number of animals and birds.

City of Lear worth a visit to see the famous astronomical clock, ancient Zimmer tower and ring of fortifications related to XVI century.

Not far from the city is natural Kalmthout Nature Reserve with sand dunes, moorlands and pine forests.

City of Ghent is capital of East Flanders. It surpasses all other Belgian cities in terms of the number of remarkable buildings of ancient architecture. Especially a lot of them in the historical center.

One of the main symbols of the city can be called St. Michael's bridge through fox channel and watchtower. Indoor Cloth Market Lakenhalle belongs to the 15th century.

Beautiful embankments of Grasli and Korenlei lined with medieval guild buildings. Very well preserved the oldest quarter of Ghent Patershol. The local buildings were built in the period of the XVI-XVMI centuries. Now they have shops, restaurants, cafes, etc.

To the main tourist attractions Ghent can be attributed to the church of St. Nicholas, the church of St. Michael, the old fortified sluice of Works, the street of ancient houses of Grasley, the castles of Count Philip and Gerard the Devil, which were built in the XII century, van der meers palace(XVIII century). Cathedral of St. Bavo The 12th century is interesting for the murals of Van Eyck. university library has a tower, the height of which is 64 meters. On the slopes of the "mountain" Blandeinberg located Abbey of St. Peter which dates back to the 17th century. Main square of the city is Vrijdagmarkt ("Friday Market"). On the Breidelstraat tourists can see Royal Palace. Town Hall on Hoogpoort surrounded by magnificent houses of representatives of the aristocracy.

Old " beguinage" represents Convent of the Order of the Beguines of St. Elizabeth, it is located around the church of the same name. At Baylock Abbey works today Archaeological Museum.

At the Museum of Modern Art presents a rich collection of works by artists belonging to the school " old Flemings". These works belong to the XV-XVI centuries.

The most popular museums cities can be named: Museum of Modern Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Folklore, which currently operates in the building of the old Hospice Kinderen Alain.

On the Veldstraat pedestrian street located old mansions buildings 18th century and expensive shops.Shores of the Scheldt turned into picturesque gardens.

Not far from the city are Laarne, Ooydonk and Vondelgem castles that served for defensive purposes.

City of Bruges is capital city of West Flanders. In the Middle Ages, it was considered a popular trading center. special attention deserves the part of the city that is located between the station, the main square and the market.

Worth to visit City Museum of Fine Arts.Inside the Sint Jans Hospital open today Hans Memling Museum. Buildings dating back to the 13th century are interesting on the territory of the old market square.

watchtower was built in the period of the XIII-XV centuries. Its height is 83 meters.

In the Cathedral of St. Salvator(XII-XIII centuries) there is a rich Cathedral Museum. Gothic Church of Our Lady, built in the XIV-XV centuries, has a height of 122 meters.

To the most beautiful churches relate: St. James, St. Walpurgis, St. Anne, St. Giles and Jerusalem. Outside Daver located Gruthuse Palace. Also of interest are the ancient Ezelpoort city gate,Gentpoort and Smedenpoort, Palace of Justice(Palace of the Union of Bruges),Basilica of the Blood of Christ(XV century). At Burg Square costs Basilica Saint-Saint.

Great popularity tourists also enjoy such historical monuments as Lace center, acting mill of St. Janus, which was built in 1770, and also 80 bridges stretching over picturesque canals.

City Liege counts the largest and one of the most ancient cities of Wallonia. Most tourists must visit here St. Lambert's Square, City Hall and Church of St. James, Palace of the Prince-Bishops.

Quite interesting expositions are presented in Museum of Walloon Life and Museum of Walloon Art.

Ancient symbol of Liege independence is Platform, which is a fountain and a column with four lions. It is located on the market square Marchais.

In the old Monastery Frere-Miner a lot of interesting museums. Baptismal fonts with biblical stories often referred to as " liege miracle".

On St. Leonard's Bridge located Curtius' house white-red color. St. Paul's Cathedral can see on Vinave d'Isle Square. Here is the famous a statue"Virgin of Delcourt". Passage Lemonnier was built in 1839 and is considered the oldest passage in the country.

At Isère Square the building is located theater de la place, in the en-Rothure lane- famous circus deaver.

On the hill of St. Martin costs Chapel of the Holy Communion with 12 Jean Delcourt medallions. At the local glass museum More than 9,000 exhibits are presented to the attention of visitors.

Other interesting museums include: Museum of Religious Art and Mozan Art,Weapons museum, Ansembourg Museum, Zoo museum and Chancha Puppet Museum.

City of Mechelen (Malin) well known for his famous bells. It is from the name of this city that the expression " raspberry ring”, which refers to the beautiful chime of bells. This city has been for five centuries capital of the Spanish Netherlands. In addition, here the great Beethoven was born.

Mechelen is quite interesting for its architectural monuments. Schepenhuis is one of the oldest buildings in the city, it was built in 1374. Also noteworthy for tourists town hall(XV-XVI centuries), Royal Lyceum, Cathedral of St. Rombout, baroque church of St. Peter. In the palace of Margaret of Austria, dating back to the 16th century, is located Palace of Justice.

Palace of Margaret of York is currently an urban theatre. Church of St. John notable for the fact that it houses the famous triptych by Rubens "Adoration of the Magi".

Worth to visit Church of Our Lady of Hanswijk(1663), bishopric and Abbey of Saint-Tron. Big Beginage attracts with its magnificent church built in the 17th century.

From the main museums of the city can be distinguished: City Museum (Museum of the Busleiden family), Museum of Toys and Folklore, as well as Museum of Traditional Crafts and etc.

Small borough of waterloo is one of the main tourist areas of the country. It is known all over the world due to the fact that it happened in this place. the legendary battle between Napoleon's army and Wellington's troops. All the main sights of the town are connected with this battle. Here you can see Napoleon's headquarters,Wellington Museum, Lion Hill with Visitor Center, panorama. Interesting to visit The Wax Museum and Church of St. Joseph.

You can go to city of churches» Tour or ancient Mons. In medieval Binche the famous Carnival.

City of Charleroi represents home of the Carolingian dynasty. Tongeren- this is oldest city countries. Yui is " tin capital of the country". City of Leuven- this is first capital of the Duchy of Brabant.

On the border of Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany famous Great Ardennes Forest. It is very popular not only among tourists, but also among local residents. 30 minutes drive south of Charleroi located Grotto of Neptune, near La Roche - grotto"Thousand and One Nights". Great picturesqueness is different and rock citadel of Dinant.

The name of the country going on from the Belgae that inhabited the territory of Belgium in ancient times. In the 1st century BC uh. the territory of the country was seized Romans.

In the Middle Ages territory of modern Belgian duchies: Brabant, Luxembourg, Flanders and others, was part of the Netherlands. But in the 16th century this state was conquered by the Spaniards.

The War of the Spanish Succession led to in 1714 Belgian territories took overAustrian Habsburgs.

During the period from 1815 to 1830 Belgium was part of the Netherlands. In 1830 year happened Belgian revolution, as a result of which The Belgian state gained independence.

In 1908 year Congo became a Belgian colony. The capture of this country began in the 70s of the 19th century. Before 1908 year the Congo remained" private ownership"Monarch of Belgium.

In the 19th century started in the country opposition to the Catholic and Liberal Party. In 1945 year on the basis of the Catholic Party was formed Social Christian Party. A Liberal Party since 1961 year has become Freedom and Progress Party.

In the 90s in Belgium aggravated national question associated with the Flemish movement.

In 1885 appeared Belgian Workers' Party, which in 1941 year was converted to Belgian Socialist Party.

Most of Belgium during World War I was occupied by the German invaders. After World War II at the head of governments, especially coalition governments, were alternately socialists and demochristians.

wallonia until early 20th century was the main region of the country. It dominated in terms of economy, culture and politics. Then a more developed region became Flanders.

During the world wars German troops attacked Belgium. Currently a country's foreign policy is determined by its membership in NATO and EU.

Belgium is part of some political and economic unions, including Belgian-Luxembourg Economic Union. She is also part of Benelux countries.

International trade

Main imports are rough diamonds, textile and clothes, oil and oil products,Food, cars, as well as products chemical industry.

Main export commodities Belgium can be called Food, non-ferrous metals, cars, textile, plastics, processed diamonds, iron, steel and oil products.

The shops

The shops countries open on weekdays from 8.00 to 18.00/19.30. On Saturdays they work from 8.00 to 12.30. AT every first Saturday of the month shops are open until 17.00. Large supermarkets open all day. Sunday is weekend.

During summer and winter seasons in Belgium are sales.

Most often, tourists bring from Belgium as souvenirs brussels lace, chocolate, waffles and fruit beer, as well as tapestries of the highest quality, produced in Bruges.

Demography

Most of the population country resides in cities. Population density is quite high and is about 342 people per km². Urban population - 97% , rural- 3% .

Average duration life is 78.77 years. Average life expectancy for men - 75.59, women- 82.09 years old.

The bulk of the country's population(65.7%) are people aged from 15 to 64 years old.

Average age is 50.0 years. Average age of men - 39.6, women- 42.1 years.

Birth rate - 10,38, mortality- 10,27.

Total Child Mortality Rate is 4.62 deaths per 1,000 births.

Total fertility rate: There are 1.64 children per woman.

On the territory of the country permanently reside about 900 thousand foreigners. Them most constitute Italians, Moroccans, French, Turks, Dutch and Spaniards.

Industry

Belgian industry has high level development. In the river valley Sambra and Maas concentrated production of cement, steel and chemical products. The largest industrial centers countries are the following cities: Liege, Mons, Charleroi and Namur. Liege is also center of the steel industry.

Chemical industry produces fertilizers, various plastics, dyes and pharmaceutical substances.

petrochemical industry especially well developed in Antwerp. in Brussels the headquarters of a large chemical and pharmaceutical company is located Solvay.

Textile industry presented processing of linen, cotton, synthetic fabrics and wool.main products textile industry are carpets and blankets. Its major centers can be called Verviers, Ghent, Kortrijk and tour.

In Brussels, Bruges and Mechelen have long been producing lace.

From other industries developed diamond processing(Antwerp) and cement production and glass, food industry and woodworking. The country has several automotive industries.

The main branch of energy is nuclear. The country has two nuclear power plants.

vegetable and animal world

Common in Belgium beech and hornbeam forests, oak and birch groves. In the Ardennes forests are widespread, which consist mainly of coniferous trees. But the local soils are not at all as fertile as the soils Central plateau. Fertility is also distinguished by alluvial soils, which cover coastal lowlands of Flanders. They are used for agricultural purposes..Metro Belgium
Belgian transport schemes

Belgium is a small country domestic airlines short enough. backbone network Belgium is one of the most dense in the world.

Belgium also has a fairly extensive railway network.

main seaports are: Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent and Ostend.

Internal ports:Brussels and Liege.

Belgian roads are of the highest quality and illuminated at night. Driving through them is free.

On the highway maximum permitted speed movement is 120 km/h., on national roads - 90 km/h., in settlements -50 km/h.

local drivers do not like to follow the rules of the road, so the country is a large number of serious accidents.

To park a car best in cities in paid parking lots. Of course, you can leave the car on the side of the road or sidewalk, but it can evacuate and getting the car back will not be easy.

Tourists in Belgium can rent a car, but this expensive manages. To rent a car with you necessary have an international or national driver's license, passport and credit card.

Much cheaper take bike. Bicycles for rent available in all cities.

Urban transport presented buses and trams. In the capital still available and underground. between cities convenient to move around by train or bus.

parking Taxi located in almost all tourist areas. Also, the car can be simply catch on the street or call by phone.

And barley. Each region has its own distinctive features. The most fertile region country is Condrosis. Around big cities grow up fruit and vegetables.

For agricultural needs about 1/4 of the total area of the country is used. About half of the agricultural land falls on pastures for grazing livestock. animal husbandry provides 70% of all agricultural products.

animal husbandry presented mainly cattle breeding and pigs.

Cost of service in restaurants already included in the bill and is 15%. At the bar and cafe for the services of a waiter 10-15% from account. In taxi tips also included in the fare.

Received also leave a tip caretaker in the toilet, cinema ticket collector and theater, as well as hairdressers.

National Features

enough in the country low crime rate. However, tourists beware pickpocketing, which is not uncommon.

Tourists should be on the alert in in public places and around the quarter Rondpoint Schuman", in which are located institutions of the European Union. Valuables are best kept in the hotel safe.

locals negatively perceived if tourists start criticizing the royal family and the institution of the kingdom. Not worth it touch on the topic of interethnic relations. It is forbidden compare Belgium with France and copy the local accent.

In Belgium there is an unusual for us tradition repeatedly say hello to the same person. Thus, they express respect for each other. According to etiquette this country necessary express gratitude for even the smallest phone call.

It should be noted that the locals not nice have more intimate conversations. The conversation mostly consists of formal polite questions and answers. Not worth it discuss politics, money, health and personal life with the locals.

Belgians can be called pedants in relation to education and work. Bragging about one's wealth or position considered a sign of bad taste.

The Belgians just love horses, riding and everything connected with it.

According to local laws necessary always carry an official identity document with you and present it at the first request of the police. Tourists need international health insurance. Medical services in Belgium are different high quality and stand expensive. Rendering emergency care is free, all other medical services - paid.

Pharmacies on weekdays work from 9.00 to 19.00,on Saturday -from 9.00 to 13.00. AT major cities there are 24-hour pharmacies. Addresses of duty pharmacies can be found on signs, in national daily newspapers and on special posters posted in the windows of all pharmacies.

Political-geographical and economic-geographical characteristics of Belgium

State borders

Belgium directly borders four countries. A small narrow strait of the North Sea separates it from England. Land borders run in the north with the Netherlands, in the east with Germany, in the southeast with Luxembourg and in the south with France. Thus, having access to the sea, the country is indeed located in the center of the most densely populated and industrialized zone Western Europe.Through its territory, trade routes connecting neighboring states with each other and with the North Sea have long passed. In the words of the Belgians themselves, their homeland is "the crossroads of Western Europe." The main rivers of the country are Scheldt and Meuse, originating in France.

Patterns of population distribution

In terms of population density, Belgium occupies one of the first places in the world. With an average density of 316 people. per 1 km2 (1968) in the central part of the country, gravitating towards the capital (in a zone with a radius of 60 km), the average density reaches 550 people. per 1 km2. The urban population makes up over two-thirds of the population of Belgium. Large cities (thousand inhabitants, December 1967): Brussels (1079, with suburbs), Antwerp (239.8), Ghent (155.7), Liege (152.5). Official statistics distinguish 7 urban agglomerations [with centers in the cities. Brussels, Antwerp, Liege, Ghent, Charleroi, Leuven (Louvain), Bruges].

Economy of Belgium

Belgium is a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development - OECD), the European Union (EU), the country became the first member of the European Monetary Union in 1999.

The basis of the Belgian economy is the service sector (primarily transport and trade) and industry.

The production of steel, cement and chemical products is mainly concentrated in the valley of the rivers Sambre and Meuse. The largest industrial cities- Mons, Charleroi, Namur and Liège. Previously, coal mining was also carried out in this area, but in the 1980s the last mines were closed. The center of the steel industry is Liege. Products of the chemical industry - fertilizers, dyes, pharmaceuticals, as well as various plastics. The center of the petrochemical industry is located in Antwerp, the headquarters of the large chemical and pharmaceutical company Solvay is located in Brussels.

The textile industry, which originated in the Middle Ages, includes the processing of cotton, linen, wool, and synthetic fabrics. One of the most important products of the textile industry is carpets and blankets. The main centers of the textile industry are Ghent, Kortrijk, Tournai, Verviers. Brussels, Bruges and Mechelen are known as the ancient centers of lace production.

Other industries are diamond processing (primarily in Antwerp), cement and glass production, woodworking, and the food industry. There are several automotive industries.

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