brussels

Brussels, officially the City of Brussels, is the capital and largest city of Belgium. It lies in the central part of the country and is home to a substantial international presence. The city is considered the de facto capital of the European Union, housing core institutions such as the European Commission and the Council of the European Union, and serving as a major venue for European politics. The wider Brussels-Capital Region also hosts NATO’s headquarters.

Administratively, Brussels is one of three regions that make up Belgium; the Brussels-Capital Region has its own regional government. The city is officially bilingual, with French and Dutch as official languages. In daily life, French predominates, while Dutch is used in some official contexts and schools. The region encompasses multiple municipalities and neighborhoods within a diverse international population.

The historic center around Grand Place (Grote Markt) is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Notable landmarks include the Manneken Pis fountain, the Atomium from the 1958 Expo, and the modern European Quarter. Brussels is also renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, with works by Victor Horta, and for its cultural institutions, museums, and culinary scene, particularly chocolate, beer, and waffles.

Brussels is a major transport hub with Brussels Airport in Zaventem and an extensive public transport network operated by STIB‑MIVB, including metro, tram and bus lines. The city is well connected by high-speed rail to other European capitals and serves as a center for international diplomacy and business.