Belgia

Belgia is the name used in several languages to refer to the country commonly known in English as Belgium, located in Western Europe along the North Sea. It borders the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France, and the sea. The country covers about 30,500 square kilometers and has a population of around 11.5 million.

Belgia is a federal constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king, currently Philippe, while the head of government is the prime minister. The federal government shares power with three regions and three language communities, a system designed to manage linguistic and cultural diversity.

The three regions are Flanders in the north, the Brussels-Capital Region in the center, and Wallonia in the south. The language communities are the Flemish Community (Dutch-speaking), the French Community, and the German-speaking Community. Brussels is officially bilingual (French and Dutch) and hosts the European Union institutions and NATO headquarters.

The economy is highly developed and export-oriented, with strengths in services, manufacturing, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Antwerp is a major port and diamond center. Belgium participates actively in the European Union and international organizations and maintains a high standard of living and social welfare.

Belgian history includes independence in 1830, followed by constitutional reforms that created a fully federal state in 1993, reflecting its urban and cultural diversity. Belgian culture is renowned for its cuisine, beer, chocolate, and medieval architecture, with numerous World Heritage Sites and vibrant cities such as Bruges, Ghent, and Leuven.