Grimbergen, municipality in Flemish Brabant, Belgium
Grimbergen is a small municipality in the Arrondissement of Halle-Vilvoorde in Belgium, located about ten kilometers north of Brussels. It comprises old farms, houses from various periods, green spaces, and several historic buildings including a basilica, a chapel, and castle ruins.
Grimbergen originated in the medieval period under the control of a local ruling family and was heavily affected by wars between powers that destroyed parts of the castle. In the 18th century, the region was united under a Dutch princess, until Belgian independence changed the political situation.
The name Grimbergen comes from the medieval ruling family that controlled the land. Today, visitors still sense this history when walking through the streets and seeing the old farms and abbey, which show how important the church and rural life were to the community.
Grimbergen has marked walking routes with numbered points that can be followed using an app or map, leading to the main attractions. There are also bed and breakfast establishments and friendly hotels near the sights, making it easy to walk to attractions or restaurants.
Grimbergen is home to Belgium's oldest public astronomical observatory, opened in 1967, where visitors can observe the stars through telescopes. The observatory is located in old farm buildings next to the abbey and is a hidden attraction that many people overlook.
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