World Heritage Sites

When it comes to reasons to visit Belgium, can't help but mention World Heritage Sites. Belgium is home to several amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Of the 15 Belgian UNESCO sites, there aren’t really many big tourist sights (with the exception of Bruges, probably). Instead, there are very specific places that demonstrate the innovations, the artistry, and the enlightened reforms of the people over hundreds of years.

There are houses in Brussels that defined entire architectural movements. There are mines that not only powered the country's industry but also changed how workers were treated. There are the printing presses, which disseminated information across the continent and educated generations. And then there are the communes founded by women who wanted to live their lives free of patriarchy. Even if they don't appear particularly flashy or touristy at first glance, the stories behind Belgium's World Heritage Sites are some of the most interesting and diverse in this part of Europe.

Another trend within Belgium's World Heritage Sites is for sites to have multiple properties rather than a single location—and these are frequently shared with other countries. It implies that there are numerous locations throughout the country.