Eupen
About this Place
Eupen lies in eastern Belgium, close to the German border. Although administratively part of Wallonia, it is the seat of the government of Belgium’s German-speaking Community — in effect, its de facto capital — and German is the town’s principal language.
Eupen became part of Belgium after the First World War, was annexed by Nazi Germany in 1940 and returned to Belgian control in 1944. Its history and identity reflect its position in a border region shaped by both German and Belgian influences.
For the Museum, Eupen is particularly associated with Eupener Bierbrauerei. Formed in 1897 from two older local breweries, it produced Eupener pilsner in the town until its acquisition by Brouwerij Haacht in 1998. The beer is now brewed at Haacht’s brewery in Boortmeerbeek.
Visitor notes
Eupen retains a number of substantial buildings associated with its former cloth industry. It is also a gateway to the nearby High Fens and a stopping point on the Venntrilogie long-distance walking trail, which passes through East Belgium towards Signal de Botrange.