Within easy striking distance of Brussels, the historic Flemish town of Leuven traces its origins to a fortified camp constructed here by Julius Caesar. In medieval times, the town became an important center of the cloth trade, but it was a seat of learning that it achieved international prominence. In 1425, Pope Martin V and Count John of Brabant founded Leuven’s university, and by the mid-1500s it was one of Europe’s most prestigious academic institutions, the home of such famous scholars as Erasmus and Mercator.

Even today, the university exercises a dominant influence over the town, and its students give Leuven a vibrant atmosphere. The bars and cafes flanking the Oude Markt, a large square in the center of town, are especially popular. Adjoining the square is the Grote Markt, a triangular open space which boasts two fine medieval buildings, the Stadhuis and St. Pieterskerk.

 Built between 1448 and 1463 from the profits of the cloth trade, Leuven’s town hall, the Stadhuis, was designed to demonstrate the wealth of city’s merchants. This distinctive, tall building is renowned for its lavishly carved and decorated façade.