At the center is the Grand Place, a main square graced by a variety of typically ornate buildings that span a 400-year period, dating from between the 15th and 18th centuries, yet still retain a sense of symmetry.
In particular, the Toison d’Or House (1615) and the Chapel of St. George (1604) are architectural highpoints.
Away from the Grand Place, the old town hides many more sightseeing opportunities.
The UNESCO-listed bell tower on the hill above town and the Church of Sainte-Waudru with its interior crammed full of artistic and religious relics are two of the most important attractions.
The church sits right in the heart of Leuven on the town’s main square or Grote Markt.
As well as the church’s splendid 15th-century architecture, inside, art-lovers will find an extra treat. The choir and the ambulatory are home to a museum dedicated to religious art, where some of the finest Flemish paintings illustrating biblical scenes are shown.
In particular, the Baroque carved pulpit and Dirk Bouts’ painting of the Last Supper are worth a visit.
World War I, which had a significant impact on the city, is the subject of over half of the museum. The battle between the British and German forces began here, and the inhabitants of Mons suffered under the oppressors’ rule for four years before being set free in 1918.