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Brussels is a cosmopolitan city where many
different cultures live together and where different
languages can be heard on each street. It is a
city more than a 1000 years old, which stands
for an agglomeration of 19 communes forming one of
the three Regions of the federal Belgian state; the
capital of the Kingdom of Belgium; the headquarters
of the French and Flemish Communities.
Its liveliness and international flair is, of course,
intimately related to its role as a crossroads for
all of Europe. Variety and contrast can be
found in the different architectural styles that can
be found in Brussels, the former capital of the
medieval Duchy of Brabant. Gothic cathedrals and
churches are next to - and sometimes in stark
contrast with - gracious classical facades like the
buildings around the Royal Square (Place Royale -
Koningsplein), or beautiful art nouveau and art deco
houses.
The heart of Brussels and the place to start getting
to know the city is the Grand'Place (Grote Markt).
This historic market square with its splendid guild
houses and the impressive Gothic beauty of the Town
Hall, is widely considered to be one of the most
beautiful town squares in Europe.
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