Belgium
Belgium has a rich history and culture shaped by its "Golden Age of Flanders" and its involvement in several wars. The country has faced significant challenges, from the famous Battle of Waterloo to the devastating World Wars I and II.
During World War I, the battles of Ypres, Passchendaele, and Mons saw countless soldiers lose their lives. In World War II, Germany invaded Belgium, and the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes region remains one of the most significant battles in history. Today, Belgium has several museums and memorials that serve as a poignant reminder of the country's wartime history. Visiting these sites is an opportunity to better understand the country's past and honor those who sacrificed their lives in these wars.
Photo: Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery and Memorial to the Missing World War I cemetery. It is the largest cemetery for commonwealth forces in the world. Located near Passendale, Belgium.
Photo: During the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, E Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, US Army's 101st Airborne Division, dug these foxholes in "Bois Jacques" in the Ardennes Forest. Despite being outnumbered by the Germans, harsh winter conditions with limited resources, and ammunition shortages, the American soldiers, with their exceptional bravery, prevented the Germans from capturing the town of Bastogne, Belgium.
The "Golden Age of Flanders" was a period of economic, artistic, and cultural prosperity in Flanders, covering parts of modern-day Belgium. Flanders also became a center of trade and commerce, with cities such as Bruges and Antwerp becoming essential hubs for international trade. The city of Ghent has played a crucial role in the history of fashion, particularly during the Middle Ages when it was one of Europe's most important textile centers. The city was known for producing high-quality woolen fabrics, and its weavers were renowned for their skill and expertise. The legacy of the Golden Age of Flanders is still seen in the region's architecture, art, and culture today.
Photo: Rozenhoedkaai, or Quay of the Rosary, where Dijver and Groenerei canals meet, is one of the most photographed areas of Bruges.
Belgium also played a significant role during the Crusades, as it was a strategic location for the various armies and a base for the Knights Templar. The role of Belgium in the Crusades is still remembered and celebrated today, with many historical sites and museums dedicated to this period of the country's history.
Photo: The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges. Thierry of Alsace, Count of Flanders, returned from his second crusade in 1147 with the relic of the Holy Blood.
The Flower Carpet Festival is a biennial event in Brussels, Belgium, every other August, in conjunction with the European holiday of Assumption Day, which falls on August 15. The festival is known for its spectacular display of nearly one million flowers that leave spectators in awe. Volunteers put together the carpet in less than six hours, showcasing their passion and dedication. Furthermore, every evening of the event, a magnificent music and light show is held at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Grand Place is one of the most beautiful squares in the world, featuring opulent architecture that reflects the city's rich history and culture.
Photo: The Flower Carpet Festival in Brussels
Stay tuned for Space Cat Films documentary series on Belgium!
