Eupen | Belgium

Eupen is a small city located in the Walloon Region of Belgium, within the province of Liège. It is the capital of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, one of the country's three official language communities, and it is located in the eastern part of the country, near the border with Germany. Eupen, with a population of around 20,000, is known for its picturesque setting in the Ardennes mountains, its unique German-speaking culture, and its rich history.

History and Foundation

Early History: Eupen has a long history, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. The town was first mentioned in records from the 12th century. Over the centuries, it passed through various hands, including the Duchy of Limburg and the County of Loon, before becoming part of the Austrian Netherlands in the 18th century.

German Influence: Eupen has been heavily influenced by German culture. After the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, Eupen was ceded from Germany to Belgium as part of the post-World War I settlement. However, the German-speaking community remained, and Eupen today is the heart of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, one of the three linguistic communities in Belgium alongside the Dutch-speaking Flemish Community and the French-speaking Walloon Community.

Modern Eupen: Eupen has evolved from its industrial roots into a center for the German-speaking community in Belgium. The town is known for its cultural activities, historical architecture, and proximity to nature. It is also a hub for cross-border relations with Germany, which has influenced its development, both economically and socially.

Key Landmarks and Attractions

Eupen is home to a mix of historic and natural attractions that reflect its unique cultural background and scenic surroundings.

Eupen Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville): The Eupen Town Hall is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, located in the Grand Place (Grote Markt). The building is an excellent example of neo-classical architecture with a clock tower that dominates the central square. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors to meet and take in the surrounding views.

St. Nicholas Church (Église Saint-Nicolas): The St. Nicholas Church is a striking neo-Gothic building located in the center of Eupen. With its high steeple and beautiful stained-glass windows, this church is one of the city's key landmarks and an important site for the local Catholic community.

The German Quarter: Eupen’s German Quarter is an area of the city that reflects its German-speaking heritage. The quarter is characterized by traditional German-style buildings and historical architecture, which showcase the town's connection to German culture. This area also hosts cultural centers and festivals that celebrate German traditions.

Kaiser Karl Monument: The Kaiser Karl Monument honors Emperor Charles V (Karl der Große), who was born in Ghent but had strong connections to the region. The monument is a testament to the historical links between Eupen and the broader European context, particularly during the Holy Roman Empire period.

Eupen Cemetery: Located in the eastern part of the city, the Eupen Cemetery is known for its well-maintained grounds and the historic graves of notable individuals, including those of soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II.

La Maison de la Laine (The Wool House): Eupen was once an important center for the wool industry, and the Maison de la Laine museum showcases the city’s industrial heritage. It offers insights into the textile production that was once a major part of Eupen’s economy.

The High Fens – Eifel Nature Park: Eupen is situated near the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes), a vast nature reserve and national park located in the Ardennes. The park is famous for its moorlands, wetlands, and forests, making it an excellent destination for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The Signal de Botrange, located nearby, is the highest point in Belgium and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The Lake of Eupen (Lac d'Eupen): The Lac d'Eupen is a reservoir created in the 20th century and offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and walking. The lake and its surroundings are popular for relaxing and taking in the beautiful natural landscape.

The Redoute (The Redoubt): A historic fortified building, the Redoute is one of the remnants of Eupen's military history, originally constructed as a fort in the 19th century to defend against external threats. It is now used for various cultural events and activities.

Culture and Festivals

Eupen has a thriving cultural scene, and its German-speaking community adds a unique flavor to the city's traditions and events.

Carnival of Eupen: Eupen celebrates the Carnival of Eupen, a lively event with parades, music, dancing, and costumes. The carnival typically takes place in February or March and is a major social event in the city, with participation from various local groups and organizations.

Eupen Music Festival: The Eupen Music Festival is a cultural highlight of the year, featuring performances by both local and international musicians. The festival celebrates classical music, jazz, and contemporary genres, attracting music lovers from around Belgium and beyond.

German Cultural Events: Given its German-speaking community, Eupen hosts various German cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including folk music performances, traditional dances, and celebrations of German language and literature. These events help reinforce the city's cultural identity.

The Christmas Market: Eupen’s Christmas market is a popular attraction during the holiday season, offering crafts, local products, and festive food. The market has a distinctly German ambiance, with wooden stalls, seasonal decorations, and mulled wine.

Cuisine

Eupen's culinary scene is a blend of Belgian and German traditions, with plenty of hearty dishes and local specialties.

• Würstchen und Sauerkraut: This typical German dish consists of sausages served with sauerkraut (fermented cabbage). It is a popular dish in Eupen, especially during festive seasons and at local events.
• Boudin Blanc: A Belgian specialty, Boudin Blanc is a white sausage made from pork, chicken, and spices, often served with potatoes and sauces.
• Aperitif: Eupen, like much of German-speaking Belgium, enjoys beer culture, with local breweries offering a wide variety of beers, including Trappist beers from the nearby Abbey of St. Sixtus and a range of Belgian ales.

Transportation

Eupen is well-connected to the rest of Belgium and beyond, making it easily accessible for travelers.

• By Train: The Eupen railway station is a key transport hub, connecting the city to the Belgian rail network. It offers connections to Liège, Verviers, and Brussels, and is also connected to Germany via the Aachen region.
• By Car: Eupen is easily accessible by car, located near the E40 motorway that connects the Belgian, Luxembourg, and German borders. The Eupen-Belgium exit on the highway provides quick access to the city.
• By Bus: The TEC bus network connects Eupen to neighboring towns and cities, including Verviers, Liège, and other local towns in the East Cantons.

Conclusion

Eupen is a unique city in Belgium that blends its German-speaking heritage with modern European culture and its picturesque natural surroundings. With a rich history, cultural diversity, and a connection to nature, Eupen offers visitors a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere. Whether exploring its historic town center, enjoying outdoor activities in the High Fens, or experiencing its cultural festivals, Eupen is a charming destination in the heart of the East Cantons.