Leuven (BE) - the Oude Markt - take 1 Leuven and Mechelen in Flanders are both cities that would be much better known outside Belgium, if they were not so near to Brussel, Antwerpen, Gent and Brugge. Leuven is a city swimming in students, both from it's own University and the French language one at what is called Louvain [same as Leuven]. Leuven suffered major damage in both world wars and many of the seemingly old [17/18th centuries] buildings are actually reconstructions. However there are some striking buildings of an earlier period. Striking? The Town Hall building is absolutely stunning. It was started in the 15th century and was always meant to be well adorned with statuary. However the cash ran out [hardly surprising] so that the many faces are those of much later [19C] people. Near to this in the Grote Markt is the Church of St Peter from the same period, again beautiful though far less flamboyant. Try also to see the Great Beguinage, originally for widows of crusaders. [edit text]  [editors]

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