Leuven
About this Place
Leuven is the capital of Flemish Brabant and one of Belgium’s most important university cities. KU Leuven was founded in 1425 and has shaped the city’s intellectual, architectural and social life for six centuries. Its colleges and university buildings remain woven through the historic centre.
Beer has been almost as influential. Dozens of breweries once operated beside the River Dijle, and the history of the city’s best-known brewing business can be traced to Den Hoorn, recorded in 1366. Sébastien Artois became its master brewer in 1708 and bought the brewery in 1717. Stella Artois was introduced in Leuven in 1926 and subsequently became one of Belgium’s most internationally recognised beers.
Brouwerij Artois also developed less familiar brands, including Loburg. A succession of mergers eventually created AB InBev, but Stella Artois continues to be brewed in Leuven and remains one of the city’s most visible connections with Belgian beer.
Leuven is also home to the elusive Loburg beer brand which is mostly sold in France. The external link below takes you to a blog documenting one man's search for his favourite beer (and that person isn't me!).
Visitor notes
Leuven’s compact centre is particularly rewarding on foot. Its highlights include the elaborate Gothic Town Hall and St Peter’s Church on the Grote Markt, the University Library and tower, and the UNESCO-listed Great Beguinage.
The Oude Markt is often described as “the longest bar in Europe”—a nickname referring to the remarkable concentration of cafés and terraces around the square rather than to one continuous bar. The redeveloped Vaartkom district also preserves reminders of the city’s industrial and brewing past.
The modern Stella Artois brewery can be visited on an organised guided tour. Advance booking is advisable, as access is available only through scheduled tours or group appointments.
Leuven is also an easy day trip from Brussels, with frequent direct trains connecting the two cities.