Things to do in Leuven

About Leuven

Leuven is a university city in the Flemish Brabant province that houses the oldest Catholic university in the world, founded in 1425. The city architecture is defined by the late Gothic style, exemplified by the intricate spires of the Historic Leuven Town Hall and the massive interior of Saint Peter's Church. Beyond its academic roots, the city serves as a brewing hub, with the Oude Markt often referred to as the longest bar in the world. Visitors can find tranquil escapes in the Groot Begijnhof Leuven, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring cobblestone streets and centuries-old brick houses.

Good to know

1. 1

   The city is home to the world's largest brewing company, AB InBev, which traces its corporate roots back to the 14th-century Den Hoorn brewery in Leuven.

2. 2

   The University of Leuven (KU Leuven) is consistently ranked among the most innovative universities in the world, influencing much of the city's intellectual infrastructure.

3. 3

   Leuven has a historical 'beer law' dating back to the Middle Ages that played a central role in shaping the local economy and urban layout.

4. 4

   The city features an unusually high density of students relative to its permanent population, which dictates its active nightlife and cyclical seasonal rhythm.