Visiting Brussels: Funny Facst To Know Brussels
There’s something about Brussels that catches you off guard in the best way. At first glance, it might seem like a polished European capital filled with grand buildings and political institutions, but spend a little time here, and you’ll quickly realise it has a quirky, playful side too. From unusual traditions and hidden symbols to surprising historical twists, Brussels is full of stories you’d never expect. It’s a place where every corner seems to have a fun fact waiting to be discovered, whether it’s about food, culture, or its unique role in Europe. So before you go, here are some interesting and slightly unexpected facts about Brussels that will make you see the city in a whole new way.
Quick Facts About Brussels
- Location: Central Belgium, in the heart of Western Europe
- Region: Brussels-Capital Region
- Population: Around 1.2 million residents
- City Layout: Made up of 19 municipalities, including the historic City of Brussels
- Year Established: Origin dates back to around the 10th century
- Elevation: Approximately 13–100 meters above sea level
- Languages: French and Dutch are official; English is widely spoken.
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Nearest Major Cities: Antwerp (45 km), Ghent (55 km)
- Nearest Airport: Brussels Airport
- Political Role: De facto capital of the European Union, hosting institutions like the European Commission and European Parliament
- Known For: Grand architecture, chocolate, waffles, beer, and comic strip culture
- Nickname: Often called the “Capital of Europe.”
The Legends of Brussels
The Legend of Manneken Pis
And as in any city, we also heard an interesting legend in Brussels. It’s about the tiny statue of Manneken Pis, whichmight look simple, but the stories behind it are anything but. One popular legend says that during a siege of Brussels, enemies tried to blow up the city walls using explosives. A young boy spotted the burning fuse and, thinking quickly, put it out in the most unexpected way: by peeing on it, saving the entire city. Another version tells of a wealthy merchant whose young son went missing. After a frantic search, the boy was found happily relieving himself in a garden. Relieved and amused, the father commissioned the statue to commemorate the moment. Over time, the statue became a symbol of Brussels’ sense of humor and rebellious spirit. Today, it’s famous not just for the legend, but also for its wardrobe, regularly dressed in hundreds of different costumes throughout the year.
One of the quirkiest facts about the Manneken Pis is that it has its very own wardrobe. Despite its tiny size, the statue owns hundreds of costumes. It is regularly dressed up to celebrate holidays, cultural events, and even international occasions, making it one of the most unique traditions in the city.
The Legend of Saint Gudula and the Devil
One of the oldest legends in Brussels is tied to St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and its patron saint, Saint Gudula. According to the story, Gudula would walk to church before dawn each day, carrying a lantern to light her way through the darkness. But the devil, determined to test her devotion, would repeatedly blow out her candle, leaving her in complete darkness. Instead of giving up, Gudula calmly relit the candle every single time and continued on her path. Eventually, her unwavering faith and patience defeated the devil, who gave up his attempts to stop her.
The legend became a symbol of perseverance and quiet strength, and it’s one reason why Gudula is still so closely associated with Brussels today.
A Brief History of Brussels
- 10th Century Origins. Brussels began as a small settlement on the river Senne, founded around a fortress built by Charles, Duke of Lower Lorraine.
- Medieval Growth. By the 12th–14th centuries, Brussels developed into a thriving trading town, known for textiles and commerce.
- Burgundian Rule (15th Century). The city flourished under the Duchy of Burgundy, becoming an important political and cultural center.
- Habsburg Netherlands (16th–18th Century). Brussels came under the control of the Habsburg Monarchy, shaping much of its architecture and governance.
- 1695 Bombardment. A large part of the city, including the Grand Place, was destroyed by French troops and later rebuilt in its iconic style.
- French Rule (1795–1815). Revolutionary France annexed Brussels during the French Revolutionary Wars.
- Belgian Independence (1830). Brussels became the capital of the newly formed Belgium after the revolution.
- Industrial Expansion (19th Century). The city modernized rapidly, with new boulevards, railways, and urban development.
- World Wars Impact (20th Century). Brussels was occupied during both World War I and World War II, but remained an important administrative center.
- EU Capital (Late 20th Century–Today). Today, Brussels is known as the political heart of Europe, hosting key institutions like the European Union.
13 Interesting Facts About Brussels
#1: Capital of Europe: Home to EU & NATO Headquarters
Brussels isn’t just the capital of Belgium; it’s widely known as the “Capital of Europe.” The city hosts major institutions such as the European Commission and the European Parliament, as well as the headquarters of NATO. Thanks to its global political importance, Brussels attracts more diplomats, journalists, and international officials than even Washington D.C., making it one of the most influential decision-making hubs in the world.
#2: Brussels Is the Birthplace of Comic Strips
Comic culture runs deep in Brussels, often considered one of the world’s capitals of comic art. The city is the birthplace of iconic characters like Tintin, created by Hergé, whose adventures are still loved around the globe. But it doesn’t stop there, Brussels also celebrates other famous Belgian comics like The Smurfs by Peyo and Lucky Luke by Morris.
As you explore the city, you’ll notice this passion everywhere. The famous Comic Strip Route features over 50 large murals painted across building walls, turning ordinary streets into an open-air gallery. You can also visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center, housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, to dive deeper into the history and artistry behind these beloved stories.
#3: There Are Over 1,000 Types of Beer
Brussels sits at the heart of Belgium’s legendary beer culture, boasting an incredible variety of brews, over 1,000 different types. From traditional Trappist beers like Westmalle Tripel and Chimay Blue to fruity lambics like Cantillon Gueuze and Kriek Boon, there’s something for every palate. Many bars and cafés specialize in serving dozens of different beers, each in its own uniquely shaped glass designed to enhance the flavor, aroma, and experience, making a beer-tasting journey in Brussels a must for any visitor.
#4: The City Used to Be a Swamp
A surprising fact about Brussels is that it was originally built on swampy land. The city’s name is believed to come from the Old Dutch word Bruocsella, meaning “settlement in the marsh.” In its early days, the area around the Senne River was wet, marshy, and prone to flooding, making construction difficult. Over the centuries, the city gradually drained and covered the marshes, straightened the river, and built canals and embankments, transforming the landscape into the bustling urban center we know today. Yet traces of its watery past can still be glimpsed in some older canals, hidden waterways, and the city’s historic layout.
#5: Brussels Has a Sweet Spot for Chocolate
Brussels is a paradise for chocolate lovers. The city is home to some of the world’s most famous chocolatiers, including Neuhaus, Godiva, and Pierre Marcolini, each offering exquisitely crafted pralines, truffles, and artisanal creations. As you stroll through streets like Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the smell of chocolate wafts from shop windows, tempting passersby with intricate designs, unique flavors, and luxurious fillings. From classic dark chocolate to inventive combinations with fruit, nuts, or spices, tasting chocolate in Brussels is both a culinary experience and a glimpse into a beloved Belgian tradition.
#6: Oldest Shopping Arcade
Brussels is home to one of Europe’s most elegant and historic shopping destinations: the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Opened in 1847, this covered arcade was a marvel of its time, designed with soaring glass ceilings that flood the space with natural light and intricate wrought-iron details that showcase 19th-century craftsmanship. Inside, you’ll find luxury boutiques, chocolate shops, cafés, and theaters, all arranged along beautifully tiled floors. Beyond shopping, it has been a cultural hub for centuries, hosting literary salons and performances.
#7: Dive Into One of the Deepest Pools in the World
Brussels is home to Nemo 33, once recognized as one of the deepest indoor swimming pools in the world. Reaching a depth of 33 meters, this unique pool isn’t just for swimming; it’s a haven for scuba divers and freedivers. What makes Nemo 33 especially fascinating are its underwater caves and chambers, designed to simulate natural diving environments. The water is kept at a comfortable 30°C year-round, making it perfect for training, exploration, or simply testing your diving skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Nemo 33 offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Brussels that combines adventure, science, and a touch of the extraordinary.
#8: You’ll Find Art Nouveau Everywhere
Brussels is a treasure trove for lovers of Art Nouveau architecture. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, architects like Victor Horta, Paul Hankar, and Henry Van de Velde transformed the city with elegant, flowing designs featuring intricate ironwork, curved lines, and floral motifs. You can see their work in private homes, public buildings, and even cafés, turning the streets of Brussels into an open-air museum. Walking around neighborhoods like Ixelles and Saint-Gilles, it’s impossible not to notice the attention to detail, from ornate facades to stained-glass windows.
#9: Brussels Sprouts: A City’s Namesake Veggie
Yes, the tiny green vegetable we know as Brussels sprouts is indeed named after Brussels! They have been cultivated in the region since at least the 16th century, prized for their hardiness in the cold northern European climate. Locals in and around Brussels grew them extensively, and over time, the vegetable became associated with the city itself. Today, Brussels sprouts are a staple in European cuisine, and their name serves as a little reminder of the city’s agricultural history, a quirky and tasty connection to Brussels’ past.
#10: The Praline Was Invented in Brussels
Brussels is the birthplace of the praline, one of Belgium’s most famous chocolate creations. In 1912, Jean Neuhaus invented the first filled chocolate, encasing delicious ganache, nuts, or creams inside a delicate chocolate shell. This innovation transformed chocolate from a simple treat into an art form, inspiring chocolatiers across Belgium and the world. Today, pralines are a symbol of Brussels’ rich chocolate heritage, and you can sample countless variations in shops throughout the city, from classic flavors at Neuhaus to modern creations by artisans like Pierre Marcolini. Every bite is a little taste of Brussels’ sweet history.
#11: The Emblem of Brussels Is a Yellow Iris
The official emblem of Brussels is the striking yellow iris, a symbol associated with the city for centuries. This flower naturally grew in the marshy lands around the Senne River, reflecting the city’s origins on wet, swampy terrain. The yellow iris represents resilience and beauty emerging from challenging conditions, qualities that mirror Brussels’ growth from a small riverside settlement into a bustling European capital. You can spot the iris motif in the city’s coat of arms, official documents, and even in public artworks, serving as a botanical reminder of Brussels’ history and identity.
#12: Audrey Hepburn Was Born in Brussels
Audrey Hepburn, one of the most beloved icons of film and fashion, was born in Brussels in 1929. Though she spent much of her childhood moving between countries during World War II, her birthplace ties her to the city forever. Today, Brussels honors her legacy with plaques and walking tours that highlight places connected to her early life, reminding visitors that this elegant, compassionate star once called the Belgian capital home. Her story adds a touch of glamour and international fame to the city’s rich cultural history.
#13: Brussels Was Founded in 979
Brussels officially traces its origins back to the year 979. That’s when Charles, Duke of Lower Lorraine, built a fortress on the banks of the Senne River under the orders of Otto II. The fortress was placed to protect this northern part of the Holy Roman Empire and to control trade routes along the river. Over time, the settlement around the fortress grew into a bustling town, eventually developing into the vibrant capital we know today. This founding moment marks Brussels’ transition from a military outpost into a center of commerce, culture, and political importance, laying the groundwork for its rich history.
Brussels is a city full of surprises, where history, culture, and quirky charm collide. From iconic landmarks and delicious chocolates to comic murals and hidden stories, there’s always something new to discover around every corner. Whether you’re wandering its historic streets, tasting its famous beers, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Brussels leaves a lasting impression and plenty of memories you’ll want to return to again and again.
Pack your bags and explore Brussels.
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