Hasselt

Hasselt is the capital of the Limburg province in the Flemish Region of Belgium. It sits along the Demer river, about 60 kilometers east of Brussels. The city has a population of roughly 75,000 residents and serves as an administrative, educational, and cultural center for the region.

The historic core of Hasselt features a concentration of early modern and 17th- to 19th-century buildings around the Grote Markt, the town hall, and the Sint-Quintinus Cathedral. The architecture reflects a range of periods, from medieval foundations to contemporary renovations, contributing to a compact and walkable city center.

Hasselt’s economy is diversified, with services, education, retail, and logistics playing important roles. The city is known for its cultural institutions and events, which contribute to a lively urban life. Notable cultural assets include the Modem fashion museum, which highlights Belgian and international fashion, and various galleries and venues throughout the year.

Education is anchored by the University of Hasselt (UHasselt), which operates campuses in Hasselt and nearby towns. The university collaborates with regional partners on research and training, supporting the city’s knowledge economy and innovation efforts.

In terms of transport, Hasselt is served by a regional railway network and is connected to major Belgian and nearby Dutch cities by road and rail. Its location near the Dutch border places it within a cross-border context for commerce, culture, and commuting.