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Home , Coast Tram (Belgium), Flanders, Horta Museum, Manneken Pis, Matthias Schoenaerts, Memling (train)

TH IS “ is a region of creators – Flanders State of the Art headstrong, sustainable, skilled and helpful people who have been passionate about knowledge FLAN and expertise for centuries. It is a story of pioneering and high- profile skill – in the past and present, as well as in the future.”

Flanders State of the Art DERS Side panel of the St. Ursula Shrine by (1489) - Memling Museum, © Tom D’haenens 02

03-07 “Flanders is a region of creators; The heart headstrong, sustainable, skilled of Europe and helpful people who have been The journey in Flanders begins with its content prime location. With easy access to and from Flanders, one is never too far from passionate about knowledge discovering the richness of the region. and expertise for centuries. It is - - a story of pioneering and high- 08 25 26 37 profile skill – in the past and Colophon Discover Heritage &

Responsible editor: Karl Musschoot, Head of the Communication Division, Flanders contemporary present, as well as in the future.” Department of the Services for the General Food and Cycling in Flanders are in the Flanders has centuries worth of cultural Government Policy, Government of Flanders blood. From the kitchen to the cycling heritage gems in the fine arts and Boudewijnlaan 30, 1000 paths, Flanders is regarded as a world- architecture as well as the cutting edge Graphic design: Tim Bisschop (houtkaaizeven.be) class place to enjoy an internationally in fashion, design and contemporary arts. Font: Flanders Art, Jo De Baerdemaeker celebrated fine dining experience as well And that is just the beginning. Texts: Robert Fulton as a trek across the countryside. Printed by: die Keure, Bruges Coordination: Brand Team Flanders (Leontien Demeyere, Ingrid Van Rintel and Ludwig Van den Meersschaut)

In collaboration with: Flanders Investment & Trade, Visit Flanders, Arts Flanders, the - - Department of Foreign Affairs and the cities 38 53 54 55 of Brussels, , , Mechelen, In Flanders, we can offer you a great time. But, also remember… weave for in and outside, extra-large or small in metal, plastics and Bruges. Invest in Intrigued We design fashion for and the freakiest costumes for fun. or textiles. We deliver heavy-duty machines and sophisticated Date: February 2014 We make breathtaking cinema or theatre and bring our love for medical transplants. We create new islands in the sea and build Depot number: D/2014/3241/037 Flanders. by Flanders arts abroad. We excite with our heritage even when it recalls the highest towers. We assemble world-famous cars and bikes Published by © the Government of Flanders Flanders will capture your imagination a dramatic era. We talk a dozen languages and cook with a for all purposes. We make scientists and craftsmen think out of Trade with and not let go. There are many ways to The publisher has complied with all copyright law provisions, insofar as possible. If you believe you are delve deeper into this fascinating region, thousand flavours. We export hundreds of beers and send our the box and give answers to new challenges. We are champions entitled to claim copyright, please contact the publisher. Flanders so let your curiosity be your guide as you witlof to New York. We make the best pills for headaches and in recycling giving our resources seven lives. We are too busy discover all that Flanders has to offer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be Quality, craftsmanship and a standard of the most delicate chocolates. We design the finest lingerie and to be proud of our achievements and this modesty serves us as reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted excellence are found in everything that is cut the most sparkling diamonds. We build the biggest screens well in politics as in sports in doing business as in sustainable in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior from Flanders. You will only find the best and podiums for the world’s greatest events. We spin and relations, in Flanders and world-wide. written permission of the copyright owner. here, with no exceptions.

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FLANDERS, THE HEART OF EUROPE

Getting to Flanders is easy / Flanders is the autonomous northern region of Brussels Atomium © www.atomium.be - SABAM 2009 - Victor Riverola - SABAM 2009 Victor Brussels Atomium © www.atomium.be 06 BRUSSELS IS AT THE HEART OF EUROPE. , PARIS, COLOGNE AND ARE ALL LESS THAN TWO HOURS AWAY. Flanders is the autonomous Getting TRAVELING BY TRAIN northern region of Belgium Coming from Paris, to Flanders Amsterdam or Cologne? www..com

Coming from London? www.eurostar.com is easy AMSTERDAM Traveling within Flanders? www.belgianrail.be. The Belgian Rail system offers BRUGES GHENT ANTWERP different specials and passes.

TRAVELING BY PLANE < LONDON Brussels > Amsterdam: 1h52 Brussels Zaventem Airport: the main international airport, 20 minutes from Brussels City Centre.

Brussels-South Airport 45 minutes from Brussels > London: 1h51 Charleroi: Brussels City Centre.

Brussels > Cologne: 1h43

COLOGNE

BRUSSELS LEUVEN

Brussels > Paris: 1h25

Belgium has been a federal country since including broad and exclusive domestic and energy distribution, housing, agriculture the reforms of 1993. The country is divided international responsibilities. Flanders has and horticulture, environment, public works into three territorial Regions (Flanders, a unicameral legislature. The legislative and and transport, employment policy, culture and Brussels Capital Region) and monitoring power rests with the Flemish and education, science and innovation. AT WWW.ACCESSIBLEFLANDERS.BE, INFORMATION CAN language-based Communities (Dutch, French , which is directly elected by the Flanders pursues a foreign policy regarding BE FOUND ABOUT ACCOMMODATION, TRANSPORTATION, and German) in line with these language people of Flanders every five years. all of its competences and is able to MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS. HOLIDAY REPORTS AND TIPS groups, with Brussels as the capital of the conclude bilateral and multi-lateral treaties. FROM TRAVELLERS WITH A DISABILITY ARE ALSO AVAILABLE. Federal State of Flanders. Flanders enjoys maximum autonomy in Flanders’ exchange with other countries numerous domains, because the Government is not only promoted by its diplomatic You don’t speak Flemish/Dutch? This is not a problem. As Flanders is located at The Region and Community of Flanders have of Flanders and the federal government representatives worldwide, but also by the heart of Europe, nestled amongst the , , , the United a common Parliament and a Government. are on equal footing, and their powers approximately one hundred representatives Kingdom, and so forth, most people are willing to help out in English, French, This federal state of Flanders has its do not overlap. Flanders is competent for specialised in trade and investment German or even Spanish. own legislative and executive powers, economics, foreign trade, health care, promotion, agriculture and tourism.

PARIS 07 02

DISCOVER FLANDERS

Meet the people from Flanders … and their lifestyle / Antwerp / Brussels / Bruges / Ghent / Mechelen / Leuven / Flanders Fields Toman © Jelle Vermeersch © Jelle Vermeersch Toman 10 DISCOVER FLANDERS Meet the people from Flanders …

Flanders, as we know it, is © Kris Vlegels Dominique Persoone the combination of the people, their environment and their The nickname of Flandrien was given to the history. Flanders is a mixture track cyclists from Flanders in the 1910’s and of knowledge, no-nonsense 20’s, and today is an intrepid cyclist who behaviour and non-conformity rides through all types of weather, never tempered with ingenuity hangs his head and preferably also wins and innovation. These traits the race. Flanders is home to the challenging ‘Ronde van Vlaanderen’ (), are widespread: in industry, a 260 km race that includes steep hills, education, healthcare, creative cobblestoned streets and stunning views. economy, culture, science, technology, tourism and Flanders is a true culinary adventure. heritage. Whether in large, contemporary restaurants or intimate old-fashioned cafés, one finds sophisticated and surprising compositions. Flanders is truly a place where history is Flanders boasts of more than 70 Michelin- so clearly present that it is palpable in starred restaurants. Young chefs from everything in everyday life. Each generation Flanders are unique, with an eye for detail adds creative aspects and a new layer of and a powerful drive to reduce ingredients reality, and in this way, new generations to their purest form. prepare Flanders for what tomorrow may Avelgem Sluis © Westtoer Avelgem Het Pakhuis restaurant Ghent © Piet De Kersgieter bring. Not only do the people of Flanders drink beer with their meals, some traditional Rumour has it that we are modest. Likewise, dishes incorporate the wide range of beers. words such as diplomacy, compromise and Monastery brews are particularly good, strategy describe us. Such qualities help the though the most celebrated beer is Trappist, people from Flanders excel, on a national made in only a handful of Cistercian and international level. Because our region monasteries, and Westvleteren 12 has been is so small, the people of Flanders are … and their rated as the world’s best beer. In Flanders used to looking beyond boundaries. This you can indulge yourself in all kinds of constant searching has become a habit, a chocolate flavours, with an eye on the characteristic, a reflex that has proven to quality our chocolatiers try to surprise their be very useful in many ways. lifestyle customers with the finest creations. © Flanders Investment and Trade © Flanders Investment and Trade DISCOVER FLANDERS 11 12

Brussels St-Hubertus Galery Brussels © Sofie Coreynen Koninklijke

left: Musical Instruments Museum © Vlaanderen Vakantieland left: Musical Instruments Museum © Vlaanderen Vakantieland Pis fountain, Brussels © www.milo-profi.be top, middle: Manneken right: WIELS Building at Night © / the bottom, middle: Brussels www.milo-profi.be

Brussels is an international The , frequently hailed, ‘the most times. Furthermore, the Magritte Museum metropolis and the ultimate beautiful square in Europe’, is recognised stands right in the centre of Brussels, European city—a mosaic of by UNESCO as a World Heritage. The square on Place Royale, and exhibits the richest was built as a merchants’ market in the 13th multidisciplinary collection of the Surrealist languages, cultures and tradi- Century. On a bi-annual basis (next in 2014), artist’s creations in the world. tions. As the headquarters to the Grand Place becomes a stunning floral BRUSSELS, THE CAPITAL OF EUROPE. the and NATO, carpet, consisting of one million Begonias! Manneken Pis, (the famous bronze statuette Brussels is often referred to as The dedicated Horta Museum in St. Gilles is of a urinating boy), was created in the 17th The Capital of Europe. More also a must see. Moreover, while in the area, Century and embodies the irreverent spirit visit Flagey, an Art Deco building, a chic of Brussels. Comics are also a distinct and than 3,800 diplomats are active arts centre and a trendy café. very typical art form in Flanders. The classics there. By comparison, the only have held global audiences spellbound for place in the world where you Unique in the history of architecture, and generations. For example, some Suske en will find more is New York City. the unmistakable symbol of Brussels and Wiske (Spike and Suzy) albums are translated Belgium, is the Atomium, the most popular into 27 languages. For a discovery of Brussels ART AIRPORT HERITAGE HEADQUARTER ARCHITECTURE local attraction. Built for the 1958 World through the eyes of the cartoon character Many international galleries Brussels Zaventem Airport is The Grand Place, frequently Brussels is home to the The dedicated Horta Museum Exhibition, the Atomium is modelled on an of Tintin, there is a comic strip theme walk are moving to or are opening the main international airport, hailed, ‘the most beautiful headquarters of the European in St. Gilles and Flagey, an elementary Iron crystal enlarged 165 billion or the Belgian Comic Strip Centre. a branch in Brussels. 20 minutes from Brussels City square in Europe’, Union and NATO. Art Deco building, a chic arts Centre. is recognised by UNESCO centre and a trendy café are as a World Heritage. a must see. DISCOVER FLANDERS 13 14 DISCOVER FLANDERS Antwerp succeeds in being a world-class city without ever forgetting about the importance of being a pleasant and above all liveable city. There are many outstanding restaurants, bars and special venues. Antwerp has something to satisfy all taste buds. Antwerp © www.milo-profi.be Steenbergen, Van Tim

FASHION Fashionistas can explore the stores Schelde, river view, Antwerp © www.milo-profi.be en Congres , Antwerpen © Toerisme Museum Plantin-Moretus of Antwerp’s designers, whose stylish creations are revered all over the world.

Antwerp has long been a More recently, in the 20th and 21st Centuries, is an eventful journey in the footsteps of creative centre. In the 16th and fashion designers such as the ‘Antwerp Six’ millions of immigrants who boldly sailed 17th Centuries, the city was home call it home. Since the 1980’s, The Antwerp from Antwerp to America. Star Line Royal Academy of Fine Arts is one of the ocean steamers paved the way to a new to Masters such as Peter Paul world’s best design schools. Founded in life for about two million men, women and TRANSPORT and Sir Anthony Van 1663, it is also one of the oldest of its kind in children between 1873 and 1934. Antwerp is Europe’s second largest port and easy accessible by ship but also by Dyck. Rubens’ are Europe. train, plane and car. found in various museums and The MAS museum reveals a largely The Fashion Department of the Academy is untold story about the city and its relations churches in Antwerp, like the located in the Antwerp’s Fashion Museum with the port and the world. Antwerp’s largest Gothic church in the (MoMu), a dynamic and inspiring space in Museum Plantin-Moretus is also a unique , the Cathedral the heart of the city’s fashion district. experience. After 440 years, the working of Our Lady. The Cathedral day still seems about to begin for the is an iconic treasury, with an Antwerp is also responsible for nearly 80% type founders, compositors, printers and DIAMONDS of the rough diamond trading in the world, proofreaders in the world-famous printing For over 550 years Antwerp has been impressive collection of major making it the diamond capital of the world. works. The oldest printing presses in the the world’s most important and most art works, including a famous Furthermore, the Red Star Line Museum world are there, and fully functional. reliable diamond trading centre. series of paintings such as Rubens’ Elevation of the Cross and his Descent from the Cross.

ART Antwerp is an inspiring source of culture thanks to its impressive architecture and Antwerp its magnificent art displayed in a wide array of museums and churches. The MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom) designed by Neutelings Riedijk Architecten , hosts the cultural heritage of Antwerp and its port – Antwerp © Tom D’haenens – Antwerp © Tom of Antwerp and its port , hosts the cultural heritage designed by Neutelings Riedijk Architecten The MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom) DISCOVER FLANDERS 15 16 DISCOVER FLANDERS Bruges BRUGES, WORLD HERITAGE CITY.

Since the , Flanders has the image of being a chessboard of closely linked, monumental cities. The heart of Bruges, surrounded by an almost continuous ring of , is the best-preserved example of medieval Flanders. The historic centre of Bruges, is on HERITAGE the list of UNESCO World Heritage Bruges is one of the best preserved cities in Europe and the world and its whole historic Markt © Jan Darthet, Toerisme Brugge Markt © Jan Darthet, Toerisme Sites and is teeming with places centre is listed as a world heritage site. of interest. Bruges is so magical that it’s akin to a film set. This seems appropriate given that the 2008 film, In Bruges, starring and Colin Farrell was filmed on location in the city. NATURE & PARKS Bruges’s many parks and wide surroundings testify to its The famous and picturesque of beautiful nature. Bruges, also on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is a walled complex that was founded in the 12th Century, when unmarried or widowed wealthy women from devout families decided to live together in a shared community. Rozenhoedkaai © Jan Darthet, Toerisme Brugge © Jan Darthet, Toerisme Rozenhoedkaai Concertgebouw © Jan Darthet, Toerisme Brugge © Jan Darthet, Toerisme Concertgebouw

STAR RESTAURANTS Bruges is considered to be the epicentre of the world’s gastronomy with an impressive During the 15th Century, the Flemish An unmistakable part of Bruges’ pio- list of first-class restaurants. Primitives, including Jan van Eyck and neering craftsmanship is gastronomy. Hans Memling, found their creative niches Bruges ranks at the top in the world in in Bruges. The Fine Arts reigned supreme, terms of the amount of Michelin stars and Bruges quickly became the meeting per capita. Furthermore, Bruges has no less place and source of inspiration for many than 55 chocolate shops and a chocolate artists. Illustrious masterpieces and other museum. As befits a chocolate city of top collection pieces can be seen today standing, Bruges has an official city praline, ART in one of the 24 Bruges Museums, including the Bruges Swan, which is a wonderful Bruges is the place to be to marvel at medieval and early modern art, including the Groeninge Museum. In addition to creation of hazelnut praline with crunchy the world-famous collection of the the celebrated Flemish Primitives, one Bruges gingersnap, soft butter and spicy Flemish Primitives. finds top 18th and 19th-century Neo- peeled barley. classical pieces, masterpieces from Flemish Begijnhof © Jan DHondt, Toerisme Brugge Begijnhof © Jan DHondt, Toerisme Brugge © Jan DHondt, Toerisme Sint-Salvatorskathedraal Expressionism and Post-War Modern Art. DISCOVER FLANDERS 17 DISCOVER FLANDERS Ghent

ART In 2012, the restoration of the Mystic Lamb began. The Van Eyck The modern daily life of the city’s brothers painted this unique altarpiece in 1432. active inhabitants plays itself out against a gorgeous historical backdrop.

Market hall of the old city of Ghent – architects Robbrecht & Daem & Marie-José Van Hee © Tom D’haenens Hee © Tom Robbrecht & Daem Marie-José Van hall of the old city Ghent – architects Market STAR RESTAURANTS Three culinary geniuses chose to open their restaurants in Ghent. The ‘Flemish Foodies’ create a playful, dynamic and delicious cuisine.

HERITAGE At night Ghent comes to life. In STAM museum Ghent © Phile Deprez STAM

recent years the City of Ghent has Light house, effect – Ghent © stad Gent invested heavily in scenic lighting for the city center.

FESTIVALS Although Ghent is a historic city, it is also quite a contemporary Ghent holds a sparkling cultural one. It’s a gloriously eclectic city, with an excellent mix of old popular festival with numerous performances, exhibitions, and new buildings. The modern daily life of the city’s active animation movies for children, inhabitants plays itself out against a gorgeous historical fairs, parades and so much more. Restaurant Ghent © www.milo-profi.be Volta Ghent © www.milo-profi.be Water backdrop. In Ghent, they live, work and enjoy life each day to the fullest. For example, every year in July, Ghent holds a

sparkling cultural popular festival with numerous performances Philip of Alsace must have had in mind Ghent’s Town Hall is a building with many unique altarpiece in 1432, and it has become of various national and international musicians, street-theatre quite a sense of dominion when he rebuilt faces. The flamboyant Gothic style of the a symbol of the city’s rich tradition. It is the companies, exhibitions, animation movies for children, fairs, the Gravensteen Castle, the imposing 12th- façade in the Hoogpoort contrasts sharply highlight of the Flemish Primitives and a parades and so much more. And at night, when other cities go century Castle of the Counts. Overlooking with the rather sober Renaissance style of milestone in the . In addition to sleep, Ghent comes to life. In recent years the City of Ghent the city from its battlements high up on the the Botermarkt side, for example. to such historic treasures, one also finds keep, one can sense the feeling of wealth vintage clothing stores, quaint organic cafés has invested heavily in scenic lighting for the city centre. The and power that the lord of the castle must In 2012, the restoration of the Mystic Lamb and delightful river walks, combining the old Ghent lighting plan has also received international awards. have had and wished to demonstrate. began. The Van Eyck brothers painted this with the new. UV-inspection for the restoration of the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb of the Adoration the restoration for UV-inspection Ghent (MSK) - in the Museum of Fine Arts, Eyck brothers by the Van D’haenens © Tom DISCOVER FLANDERS 19 20 DISCOVER FLANDERS

Mechelen is a small and picturesque city that is big on charm and history, yet is Mechelen probably best known for its carillon school. Here, students from all over the world come to learn the art of playing church bells. Mechelen is a city thriving with quaint shops, auto-free zones and pleasant little squares.

HERITAGE TRADITION SHOPPING CARILLON SCHOOL CAR-FREE The grace of centuries-old

The people of Mechelen take Acquaint yourself with Mechelen’s Longing to hit the shops? High- Since 1922, Mechelen is home to a In the historical heart of the city, palaces and majestic churches Mechelen © www.milo-profi.be Manufcaturer De Wit, Tapestry The Carillon © Layla Aerts pride in their city’s more than treasure trove of unique street chains and chic boutiques world-famous carillon school that pedestrians and cyclist reign 300 listed monuments, four of traditions, rare crafts and stand shoulder to shoulder with attracts students from all over the supreme. If you’re visiting by car, appeals to everyone. which are inscribed on UNESCO’s unsurpassed workmanship. traditional specialist shops. world, looking to perfect the art of there is easy access to various World Heritage list. carillon playing. parking facilities. Mechelen has no less then 336 historically listed buildings and monuments, including eight Gothic and Baroque churches from the 14th Century through the 17th Century. A climb up the 538 steps of the St. Rumbolds’ Tower offers breath-taking views of the city from the skywalk. Building work by the Keldermans family of architects on this imposing Mechelen monument began in 1452, and although the 97-meter tower was never completed, it is nonetheless the symbol of Mechelen and is another UNESCO heritage site. The city’s most important documents used to be kept in this fortified tower, which was also the belfry. The bells in the tower served to tell the townspeople the time and to sound the alarm in the event of danger.

Kazerne Dossin is a very poignant place Kazerne Dossin © Stijn Bollaert of remembrance for Belgium. The Dossin barracks was a prelude to death for more than 25,000 Jews and Gypsies from Belgium and Northern France during the Second World War. A museum has recently been Mechelen has no less than 336 built to record the historical significance of this place for present and future historically listed buildings and generations and to illustrate themes like racism, exclusion and Human Rights. The monuments. A climb up the 538 combination of the Human Rights theme and the historical story of the Holocaust steps of the St Rumbolds’ tower in Belgium makes Kazerne Dossin a project of European, and global, interest. The new museum was designed by leading architect offers breath-taking views of and former Government of Flanders’ architect bOb Van Reeth. the city from the Skywalk. the Carillon, tower Sint-Romboutschurch © Vlaanderen Vakantieland the Carillon, tower Sint-Romboutschurch 21 22 DISCOVER FLANDERS

Leuven is the ideal place for quenching a thirst for knowledge A stone’s throw from Brussels. Leuven is a city or merely one’s thirst. This youthful town, less than half an with a rich cultural and historical heritage. hour by train from Brussels, is It’s the birthplace of the oldest Catholic university. home to one of Europe’s oldest and most important universities (KU Leuven), and history is pre- sent on every street corner. The University has its roots in the centre of Leuven, and its historic college buildings dominate many of the squares and streets. The University and its 28,000 students and professors have a special University Library stairs, Leuven © Toerisme Leuven University Library stairs, Leuven © Toerisme © Johnny Umans Museum M, Stéphane Beel Architecten bond with Leuven, which has BREWERY existed since the university’s Leuven hosts the very big InBev brewery, next to home brewery founding in 1425. Domus.

A few fortunate students even have the distinct privilege of living in the 13th-century stone beguinage (begijnhof) also selected as a world heritage site by UNESCO. In addition to being a highly respected seat of learning, HERITAGE Leuven is Belgium’s reigning brewing capital— 13th-century beguinage (begijnhof) no small feat in a country that produces selected as a world heritage site literally hundreds of delicious varieties of by UNESCO. beers. Leuven is the headquarters of InBev, the largest brewery in the world, famous for its range of Stella Artois beers. Centuries of tradition and craftsmanship in Flanders are behind Leuven’s premium brews.

Leuven’s Town Hall is one of the best-known ARCHITECTURE Gothic town halls worldwide and is Leuven’s M-Museum Leuven combines two old pride and joy. It took three architects and and two new buildings to a design that forms a unique setting for old thirty years to build it. Leuven’s ‘Hall of Fame’ and contemporary art. features 236 statues, which were only added

Terrace at Hogeschoolplein , Leuven © www.milo-profi.be at Hogeschoolplein Terrace to the façade after 1850. Furthermore, M - Museum Leuven, an impressive, streamlined museum building situated in the heart of the city, is quite an attraction. The complex as a whole, designed by renowned Belgian architect Stéphane Beel, integrates existing UNIVERSITY historical buildings with contemporary Leuven, centre of knowledge architecture built around a stately, old oak and innovation. Leuven tree in a peaceful interior court. City Hall Leuven ©www.milo-profi.be DISCOVER FLANDERS 23 24 DISCOVER FLANDERS

Flanders Fields THE LANDSCAPE OF FLANDERS FIELDS STILL TELLS THE WOEFUL TALE AND BEARS THE SCARS OF THE WAR. Hallen © Westtoer Tyne Cot Cemetry – Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, Zonnebeke (Ypres) © Tom D’haenens (Ypres) © Tom Museum Passchendaele 1917, Zonnebeke Tyne Cot Cemetry – Memorial lyssenthoek military cemetery © Westtoer

The strategic position of Flanders Poignant traces of this process of war and military aspects, the life at the front or in on the European map not only peace can be found in Flanders Fields, one of occupied country, and so forth. The daily the emblematic sites of the Great War (1914- Last Post that has taken place each day makes it an ideal region for 18). For four long years, while the rest of at (Ypres) since 1928 is proof entrepreneurs, but also for Belgium was occupied territory and suffered positive that memories of the fallen are warmongers and promoters great hardship, the First World War raged honoured. Meanwhile, the intense desire for of peace alike. Throughout the over this arcadian westernmost corner of peace thrives as well. From 2014 to 2018, a centuries, European powers Flanders. hundred years later, Flanders will be host to those wanting to commemorate and fought out their wars and made The landscape of Flanders Fields still tells to learn from the past. Expecting guests peace on the soil and in cities in the woeful tale and bears the scars of the from over 50 contemporary nations that Flanders. Most cities have at least war. It contains hundreds of monuments were involved in the conflict, The Flanders some remnants of fortifications and cemeteries that have great historical Government set up a broad project to used to defend themselves significance for the people of many nations. prepare for this international remembrance Museums explain in an interactive way all and to ensure that Flanders Fields will against these acts of war. of the aspects of the conflicts: the personal continue to bear witness of the follies of testimonies of soldiers and civilians, the war for the generations to come. Dodengang © Westtoer Dodengang DISCOVER FLANDERS 03

FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CON- TEMPORARY Flanders is heritage / Visual and Performing Arts / Music & festivals / Architecture / Design / Fashion / Film / Literature Conservation treatment of ‘At the Dentist’ by Theodoor Rombouts | collection Museum of Fine Arts, Ghent (MSK) © Filip Dujardin Rombouts | collection Museum of Fine Arts, Conservation treatment of ‘At the Dentist’ by Theodoor 28 FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY

Many prominent artists in Flanders have had a lasting impact on a European level over the centuries and have likewise inspired their colleagues from around the world. Het balkon van Manet, MSK, Ghent © Lukas - Art in Flanders vzw, - Art van Manet, MSK, Ghent © Lukas Het balkon Maertens, ©Sabam Belgium, 2014 foto Hugo

Frequent collaborations amongst the flagship museums of Flanders, the KMSKA (in Antwerp), the MSK (Ghent) and the Groeninge Museum (Bruges), are evidence of this communal level of support. These museums also work with museums abroad in an exchange of expertise and resources. Moreover, the public recently has had the opportunity to visit three new city museums that have opened within a short period of time: Museum M (Leuven), the MAS (Antwerp) and the STAM (Ghent). FLANDERS IS HERITAGE IS FLANDERS Venus Frigida, KMSKA, Antwerp © Lukas - Art in Flanders vzw, - Art Frigida, KMSKA, Antwerp © Lukas Venus Maertens foto Hugo

Many prominent artists in Flanders have had In the 15th Century, the Flemish Primitives This rich cultural heritage of Flanders is still a lasting impact on a European level over were amongst the first artists in Europe to a strong part of the culture and is funda- the centuries and have likewise inspired paint an extremely detailed vision of the mentally supported by the community of painters from around the world. One only world around them. This is true also for an Flanders. As such, since the inauguration of has to think of artists ranging from artist such as Pieter Bruegel I, who is best Cultural Heritage Day in 2008, collaborators Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, Pieter Bruegel I, known for his seasonal landscapes and the in museums, archives, heritage libraries , Sir , seemingly comical depiction of peasant and regional geography and history groups Jacob Jordaens to more recently James life. The Baroque of the 17th Century also are now part of a network whose mission Ensor, or Magritte to yielded several important Masters that have is to bundle expertise and to reach a wide realise the tremendous contribution by solidified Flanders in the history of Art. audience. Flanders to the cultural heritage of the arts. Margareta van Eyck, Groeninge Museum, Bruges Museum, Bruges Margareta van Eyck, Groeninge Maertens in Flanders vzw, foto Hugo - Art © Lukas in Flanders vzw, - Art KMSKA, Antwerp © Lukas De intrige, Maertens, © Sabam Belgium, 2014 foto Hugo FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY 29 30 FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY Artists such as Luc Tuymans and Jan Fabre The contemporary paved the way and developed a visual performing arts scene in language that strongly influences the visual Flanders is a dynamic

ARTS culture of their and future generations. landscape of numerous, high-quality artists and

Artists such as Luc Tuymans and Jan Fabre Flanders has an exceptional array of venues creating and have paved the way for the contemporary medium-sized visual art institutions, visual arts’ scene in Flanders and have including: M HKA, Middelheimmuseum and presenting all forms of developed a visual language that strongly Extra City in Antwerp, S.M.A.K. in Ghent, influences the visual culture of their and Mu.ZEE in and BOZAR and WIELS in theatre and dance. future generations, at home and abroad. Brussels. There are also experimental art - Fase, Four Movements De Keersmaeker Rosas / Anne Teresa to the Music of Steve (c) Herman Sorgeloos Today, new generations of artists, curators spaces: Objectif Exhibitions in Antwerp, and museum directors are exhibited Netwerk in Aalst, Z33 in Hasselt and Argos in worldwide and are omnipresent in Brussels, each having a unique profile and

museums, art centres and international remarkable exhibition programmes. 2012 – 2013 © Mirjam Devriendt Kreupelhout – Cripplewood, Berlinde De Bruyckere biennales. Berlinde De Bruyckere Kreupelhout – Cripplewood, 2012 – 2013 © Mirjam Devriendt Kreupelhout – Cripplewood, Berlinde De Bruyckere Alpensee, Thierry De Cordier © Dirk Pauwels Alpensee, Thierry De Cordier

Flanders also has a significantly large creating and presenting all forms of theatre Many of these artists have developed an number of collectors who play an important and dance. The driving force behind this international practice, whereby they build role in supporting emerging and established dynamism is rooted in the developments up their career as a succession of projects artists and enriching the collections and of the 1980’s, when many internationally and residencies in Flanders and abroad. exhibition programmes of public museums. influential theatre makers such as Jan Fabre, Contemporary artists from Flanders create a Galleries are also part of the scene with Jan Lauwers, Jan Decorte, Ivo Van Hove, wealth of performances that are generously VISUAL AND PERFORMING PERFORMING AND VISUAL prestigious international galleries moving to Guy Cassiers and choreographers such as diverse, from repertory theatre and dance or opening a branch in Brussels. Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, Alain Platel, to site-specific performance and are open to Wim Vandekeybus and many more flooded various disciplines, integrating new media, The contemporary performing arts scene the field with innovative choreographies or visual arts, live music and contemporary in Flanders is a dynamic landscape of theatre works, crafting a signature tradition. writing. numerous, high-quality artists and venues Unicorn, Michaël Borremans © Peter Cox, Courtesy Zeno X Gallery © Peter Cox, Michaël Borremans Unicorn, © photo: Bart Grietens in ‘De Keizer van het verlies’- Jan Fabre / Troubleyn Dirk Roofthooft FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY 31 Team William, 2009 © Koen Keppens FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY AND HERITAGE IS FLANDERS MUSIC & FESTIVALS

Triggerfinger © Anton Coene Jef Neve © Hugo Van Beveren Hooverphonic, Triggerfinger andMilow. beyond, pavingthewayfor bandssuchas audience inotherEuropean countriesand Flanders andbeabletofinda dedicated believe itwaspossibletocome from debut albuminspiredothergroups to exhilarating, creativeandunconventional in 1994.Theinternationalsuccessoftheir Antwerp rock banddEUScleared theway are becomingcommonplace.For many,the from Flanders‘making it’across theborders In recentyears,stories ofmusicalartists musicians worldwide. Queen Elisabethcompetitionattractyoung The FestivalofFlandersandtheannual early musictraditionofpolyphonicmusic. Festivals like LausPolyphoniaecherishthe high standards for early andclassicalmusic. Jazz andMiddelheim.Flandersalsohas Jazz aficionados fallinlovewithGhent regularly receivinginternationalacclaim. & RockenDancefestivalintheworld, both respectively knownasoneofthebestPop such asRockWerchter toTomorrowland, take placeeveryyearwithavarietyofstyles Flanders isalsomusic.Over280festivals

Courtesy of the Flemish Architecture Insitute, Culture CC De Grote Post, Ostend Centre C-Mine, – 51N4E © Marc De Blieck or make artisticcontributions. Architecture Triënnaletoserveascurators as theBiennaleofVenice andtheOslo internationally renownedartvenuessuch Flanders arefrequentlyinvitedby architecture. Moreover, architects from international attentionfor contemporary now touristdestinationsincorporating the in Europe. Antwerp,GhentandBrusselsare Brussels hasbecomeoneofthemostvital The architectural sceneofFlandersand programme andconstructiontechniques. yet imaginativehandlingofthebuilding vision oficonicbuildings,butinthecareful, contemporary Flandersliesnotinthepro- reveal thatarchitecture’s contributionto or leisure.Thesecontemporary architects new conceptsfor housing,infrastructure sites andurbanareas,or withformulating gies for re-developingformer industrial Flanders havedevelopedinnovativestrate- especially sincethe1980’s.Architects from quality inFlandersistrulyremarkable, The substantialbuildingproduction of

FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY AND HERITAGE IS FLANDERS

Courtesy of the Flemish Architecture Institute, Bronks Youth theatre Brussels – MDMA – Martine De Maeseneer Architecten © Filip Dujardin 33 ARCHITECTURE 34 FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY Belgian fashion design is marked by its quality, soberness, innovation and high-level crafts- manship, recognised and celebrated around the world. The world-renowned Antwerp Six, which graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp in the 1980’s, is still highly productive, both in Belgium and internationally. Several of the Six are fashion leaders with their own labels, such as Dries Van Noten, Walter Van Beirendonck and Dirk Van Saene. Raf Simons, though he did not study fashion primarily, has

DESIGN become the most renowned fashion designer from Flanders. Younger graduates such as Haider Ackermann and A.F. Vandervorst have also made their mark on the world stage.

Furthermore, Brussels is a true fashion centre, which predominantly displays a more avant- Cabrio collection, Hoet © Jurgen Rogiers Cabrio collection, Hoet © Jurgen garde image than other design centres of Flanders. The Brussels fashion academy La Cambre is at the top level of the international fashion scene with Kim Stumpf and Jean Paul Lespagnard as notable alumni in the field. Walter Van Beirendonck © Ronald Stoops Beirendonck Van Walter one for two, 2002 - Lachaert & d’Hanis © Joris Luyten two, 2002 - Lachaert & d’Hanis © Joris legs / two in one - for Crossed Overdose, Bram Boo Overdose,

Flanders is a prominent figure in the world As for individual designers, an icon of the of design, ranging from industrial and design world in Flanders is the late Maarten graphic to jewelry and ceramics, as well as Van Severen (1956-2005), who made history a strong representation of applied arts. This with his chairs, tables and cabinets. Other rich tradition and excellence of design in notable material designs include ceramic Flanders is found in its various academies, elegance by Piet Stockmans, and from design expositions and organisations, as the younger generation, the playful and well as design museums and centres such coloured furniture by Bram Boo stands as those in Antwerp and Ghent. Flanders out. Flanders also boasts of internationally exudes design and demands only the best acclaimed designers in jewelry and from its designers. silversmiths such as Nedda El-Asmar and David Huycke. Spoon - prototype - Stefan Schöning © Lenz Vermeulen - prototype Spoon FASHION A.F. Vandevorst © Ronald Stoops A.F. Vandevorst © Kris Vandamme Haider Ackermann FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY 35 36 FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY - FILM Cover of My Little War by Louis Paul Boon. Translated into English by Paul by Louis Paul Boon. Cover of My Little War design and composition Press. Cover: Archive and published by Dalkey Vincent by Danielle Dutton, illustration Nicholas Motte. Transla Reybrouck. hjerte by David Van om Afrikas Historien Cover of Congo. Cover Skifter. and published byTiderne ted into Danish by Birthe Lundsgaard design by Malene Henssel ‘La Boîte à Gand’, an exhibition set up during the Angoulême Poster for Zeebroek, Sarah Yu Festival 2013 © Brecht Evens, Vandenbroucke, de Walle Dijck, Lotte Van Van Hannelore in ‘Bullhead’ - Michaël R. Roskam © Nicolas Karakatsanis Matthias Schoenaerts in ‘Bullhead’ - Michaël R. Roskam

Literature advocates from Flanders can certainly boast of its past, present and The audio-visual landscape in Flanders future. Flanders is not only able to take has changed dramatically in the past pride in a rich, literary tradition, some of 10 years. Most striking is the emergence the finest contemporary Dutch-language of a new generation of creative talent, led literature also comes from Flanders. by internationally acclaimed film directors Moreover, the international attention for such as Michaël R. Roskam, Felix van translations of prose, poetry, (illustrated) Groeningen and Erik Van Looy and actors youth and children’s literature, graphic such as Matthias Schoenaerts and Veerle novels, literary non-fiction, and theatre texts Baetens. Animation studios in Flanders has risen sharply over the past decades. are also expanding, developing ambitious projects of their own and participating in For example, comics and illustrated prestigious international productions. children’s books are a highly developed,

The Broken Circle Breakdown 2012 - Felix Van Groeningen 2012 - Felix Van Breakdown Circle The Broken distinct and well-known art form in Flanders Driving this newly found vitality is a and abroad. Drawing upon the Belgian framework of incentives and other tradition set by the creators of Tintin and mechanisms that nurture local talent and Gaston, comic artists from Flanders are make productions possible. Creativity in refining their craft into art, thus gaining Flanders also benefits from a thriving them ever more international recognition. services sector, with several visual effects The same applies to illustrators from and digital post-production houses that Flanders, who re-new, adapt and expand are becoming significant international techniques established by our world-famous players. Companies such as Barco, a world artists from the Middle Ages onwards. leader in digital cinema projection, and Although all of these artists may have the Galaxy Studios, the business behind Auro-3D same heritage in common, they all search sound, are helping revolutionise the cinema for a straightforward, highly personal and experience. recognisable style. LITERATURE The Invader, 2011 - Nicolas Provost The Invader, for illustrators that promotes Cover of the publication Colouring Outside Lines, a book © Carll Cneut Flanders, text by Marita Vermeulen youth and children’s literature from FLANDERS IS HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY 37 04

INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS Study in Flanders / Logistics & automotive in Flanders / Cleantechin Flanders / Construction in Flanders / Life sciences in Flanders / Chemicals in Flanders / ICT in Flanders Tuning of the solar racing car - Punch Powertrain Solar Team, Leuven © Tom D’haenens Leuven © Tom of the solar racing car - Punch Powertrain Solar Team, Tuning 40 Belgium – and Flanders as a region – has the most open economy in the world, according to the 2013 KOF Index of Globalization.

ITS LOCATION AT THE HEART OF Not only the location at the heart of Europe for R&D and pension funds. Moreover, EUROPE, ITS SUPERB TRANSPORT makes Flanders the perfect location for companies using their own capital to businesses, but also a quality transport finance their activities can lower their INFRASTRUCTURE AND UNIQUE infrastructure that allows for fast effective corporate tax rate even further. In WORKFORCE, MAKE FLANDERS THE transportation of both goods and people. addition, a special ruling commission guides DESIGNATED ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL Although Flanders is rather compact, it foreign investors through the fiscal aspects BUSINESS PURPOSES. features four world-class ports, the most of their investment project in Flanders. The concentrated waterway network in northern sum of these tax incentives leads to one of The biggest asset of the Flemish economy is Europe, three airports for cargo and the lowest effective corporate tax rates in the people of Flanders. They not only rank passengers, and an extensive rail network the European Union. And finally, Belgium— among the world’s most highly educated for national and European destinations. and Flanders as a region—has the most open and productive workforce, but they are also Last but not least, Flanders also has a high economy in the world, according to the 2013 well-known for their high level of linguistic density of toll-free roads. KOF Index of Globalization. skills. Due to the fact that the people of Flanders live right at a point where Europe’s Furthermore, the Government of Flanders three major cultural groups meet, many is deeply concerned with creating an speak up to four languages, English included. optimal business climate for companies that Furthermore, the workforce of Flanders has settle here by offering a wide range of tax one of the world’s highest rates of loyalty to benefits and financial grants, ranging from an employer. tax exemptions to beneficial tax regimes

By 2020, Flanders aims to be the 5th most important region in Europe by putting into practice the guidelines £set out in its ‘Nieuw Industrieel Beleid’ (NIB – New Industrial Policy). Key aspects in this policy are the rapid modernisation of the industry, related services and the social fabric by means of value creation, productivity and flexibility.

Foreign investors can count on a pro-active approach from various industrial clusters in Flanders and a customised package of all the assets Flanders has in store for them. © Marco Mertens © Marco © Flanders Investment and Trade INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 42

Study in Flanders

The educational system in Flanders prepares Flanders has numerous international young people to perform optimally in schools. There are, for example, the Antwerp a quickly changing and increasingly British School and the Antwerp International internationally oriented society. The system’s School; the International School of Brussels excellence is confirmed by the results of and The British School of Brussels; the the PISA assessment project—the Program College of Europe in Bruges, which provides for International Student Assessment, university-level courses and also houses the coordinated by the OECD—which measures international research and training centre of the scholastic performance of 15-year- the United Nations University. Ghent opened olds in the areas of reading proficiency, an international school in 2012, and the city problem-solving skills, and mathematic of Louvain, KU Leuven University and and scientific knowledge in 57 countries. research institute announced their intention Moreover, in the World Economic Forum’s to establish an international private primary Global Competitiveness Report 2012- school that will offer courses in English. 2013, the region’s education system ranks 5th. For math and science has five public universities: Louvain, particular, the region claims the 3rd position Antwerp, Ghent, Hasselt and Brussels. The worldwide. Catholic University of Louvain, with more

than 32,000 students, is the largest and D’haenens Anatomical class at the faculty of veterinary medicine - © Tom

the oldest in the Low Countries, followed by the University of Ghent with nearly Flanders’ education system ranks 30,000 students. No less than three of these universities feature in the world Top 5th in the World Economic Forum’s 200 ranking published by UK newspaper The Times. Specifically, Louvain ranks 58th Global Competitiveness Report worldwide, while Ghent comes in at the 93rd place. Various business schools in Flanders are also top schools in Europe, such 2012-2013. For math and science as the Management School (UAMS) and the Vlerick Leuven Ghent education in particular, the region Management School, which is ranked in the Top 20 in the annual ranking of the claims the 3rd position worldwide. Financial Times. Ballet training session - Royal Ballet Flanders, Antwerp © Tom D’haenens Ballet training session - Royal Flanders, Antwerp © Tom INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 43 DOING BUSINESS IN FLANDERS

Nearly 800 European Distribution Centers (EDCs) are located in Flanders - which makes for a density Logistics & of over 5 EDCs per 100km2 - with some operating across automotive Europe, the Middle East, Africa and other parts of in Flanders the world. Welders at work at the construction atelier for busses - Van Hool, Koningshooikt © Tom D’haenens © Tom Koningshooikt Hool, busses - Van at the construction atelier for at work Welders

Flanders also serves as the European gateway for automotive companies the world over. In the Port of alone, more than 3 million cars are handled annually. Thanks to the abundance Flanders is home to a thriving logistics of expertise in the construction of vehicles, components and related industry covering a comprehensive range of services, big car manufacturers such as Audi, Volvo, Toyota, Mazda sectors. Nearly 800 European Distribution and Honda are all present in the region, either with assembly plants, Centers (EDCs) are located in Flanders - R&D and engineering centres, or regional headquarters. which makes for a density of over 5 EDCs per 100km2 - with some operating across Large seaship (90.000 tonnes) entering the sealock, heading for seaship (90.000 tonnes) entering the sealock, heading for Large D’haenens © Tom plant in Ghent - Terneuzen the ArcelorMittal Europe, the Middle East, Africa and other parts of the world. With its ideal location at the heart of the European markets and its superb infrastructure for transport by land, water and air, Flanders has built up an enviable reputation and an incomparable know-how and expertise in logistics. TOP 10 FLEMISH EXPORT PRODUCTS IN 2012 (in EUR billion and as % of total)

Furthermore, in Q3 2013, prime logistics Chemicals 14,6% According to the World Trade Report, space in Flanders was traded at less than Belgium – and consequently Flanders – Mineral products 12,3% EUR 50/m2 , according to real estate agent is one of the Top 10 exporting countries in Cushman & Wakefield’s Marketbeat Industrial Machines and Equipment 10,7% the world, and its per capita export figure

Snapshot, and was one of the lowest rates Vehicles 10,4% is among the highest, and as a European in Europe. Many multinationals already hub, Flanders is also a top importer. Pharmaceuticals 9,0% serve Europe from Flanders, such as: Bose, Flanders’ most successful export products Duracell, Honda, Mazda, Nike, Pfizer, Procter Plastics 8,5% are minerals, vehicles, pharmaceuticals,

& Gamble, Samsonite, Sara Lee, SKF, Stanley Base Metals 7,3% organic chemical products and mechanical & Decker, Toyota, Volvo and more. machinery. Moreover, Flanders ranks 7th in the World Diamonds 6,2% Bank’s Logistics Performance Index 2012. Food and Drinks 4,7%

Textiles 3,1% source: National Accounts Institute (National Bank of Belgium, community concept National Accounts source: 32,500 motorcycles per year are passing through this warehouse - Honda Belgium, Ghent © Tom D’haenens this warehouse - Honda Belgium, Ghent © Tom per year are passing through 32,500 motorcycles 0 10 20 30 40 50 INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 45 46 DOING BUSINESS IN FLANDERS Cleantech Flanders boasts in Flanders a wide range of innovative clean- tech initiatives with a focus on knowledge acquisition and

sharing. D’haenens Dredging along the coast of Abu Dhabi – Deme, Zwijndrecht © Tom

Fossil fuels, like coal, petroleum and natural gas, are becoming depleted and increasingly expensive. Furthermore, the continued use A popular saying is that ‘ of these fossil energy resources is a major are born with a brick in their stomach’, cause of greenhouse gas emissions, with due to their deep passion for building. long-term effects that may change our The region is home to numerous producers climate. That is why Flanders, for some of innovative building products and time now, has been making great strides in construction technologies. These are

© Flanders Investment and Trade Construction the development of new technologies for adaptable and responsive to the changing sustainable energy. Flanders boasts a wide needs of homeowners in respect of their range of innovative clean-tech initiatives comfort, safety, health and living with a focus on knowledge acquisition and in Flanders environment or to the pressures on the sharing. Three of the major clusters and built-up environment, e.g. energy efficiency incubators are: and environmental sustainability.

Greenbridge Science Park in Ostend, which specializes in renewable energy. www.greenbridge.be

Ghent Bio-Energy Valley in Ghent, Europe’s first open innovation and education centre for a bio-based economy. www.gbev.org

Energyville in Genk, with its expertise in renewable energy, smart grids and sustainable cities. www.energyville.be Oiltanking, Antwerp © Tom D’haenens Antwerp © Tom Oiltanking, D’haenens Engineer - Ocas, Zelzate © Tom © Flanders Investment and Trade INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 47 48 INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS Flanders is home to numerous

international and local life With IWT, Flanders’ government agency for Innovation by Science and Technology, sciences companies ranging Flanders has an all-inclusive mechanism in place for non-refundable grants in direct from worldwide pharmaceutical support of R&D programmes. In addition, companies investing in Flanders can take and medical imaging firms advantage of a number of helpful tax incentives. As a result of these incentives—

© Flanders Investment and Trade and the presence of many world-renowned through to small, focused research institutes—Flanders ranks among the most innovative regions in Europe biotech firms, device producers according to the 2012 Regional Innovation Flanders is home to numerous international Scoreboard, issued by the European and local life sciences companies ranging and support manufacturers. Commission. from worldwide pharmaceutical and medical imaging firms through to small, focused biotech firms, device producers and support manufacturers. Flanders is known the world over for its scientific breakthroughs in the research and development of human therapeutics. A number of these are realised by the numerous biotech spin-off companies, which gravitate to business parks in or near universities and VIB, Flanders’ worldclass research centre for life sciences expertise. These are the subject of successful IPOs, venture capital deals, takeovers and capital investments.

Belgium—and Flanders as a region—is on the verge of becoming the European leader in the biopharmaceutical sector, according to an analysis conducted by the

Patient positioning and immobilisation mask for radiation oncology - Orfit, Wijnegem © Tom D’haenens © Wijnegem - Orfit, radiation oncology Patient positioning and immobilisation mask for Health, Science and Technology Group and advisory firm Deloitte. The main reasons for this development are the many tax incentives and the strong partnership between government and industry, which recently resulted in a large number of new pharmaceutical investments. Life sciences The Government of Flanders awards generous grants and subsidies (up to a rate of 75%) for the R&D of innovative products and processes. According to in Flanders Deloitte, Flanders offers the best R&D- related incentives in Europe. This high level of incentives results in greatly reduced employment costs, which gives Flanders- based companies a major advantage over their competitors in neighbouring countries when it comes to attracting qualified talent. Patient entering CT-scanner - University Hospital Ghent © Tom D’haenens Patient entering CT-scanner - University Hospital Ghent © Tom INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 50 INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS

With a portfolio of 300 different chemicals and over 500 chemical Chemicals companies, Antwerp in Flanders is the largest chemical cluster in Europe and

© Flanders Investment and Trade the second largest worldwide.

Centrally located and easily accessible, the plays a key role in Flanders’ renowned chemical industry. Antwerp houses, among other facilities, five oil refineries and four steam crackers. With a portfolio of 300 different chemicals (the most diverse in the world) and over 500 chemical companies, which produce a wide variety of basic and intermediate products for a diverse scope of markets, Antwerp is the largest chemical cluster in Europe and the second largest worldwide. Amongst them, these companies generate an annual turnover of 54 billion . Directly and indirectly, they provide work for approximately 150,000 people. The port is also the main hub for the European pipeline network.

Flanders also has a flourishing plastics and rubber production and converting industry. Most of the companies involved deliver

direct to the packaging, car and building D’haenens Gemcutter - The Antwerp Diamond Centre, © Tom industries. The lion’s share of their output is made up of compounds and/or master batches for further processing. Flanders has the world’s highest plastics production Antwerp has, for 500 years now, been host to a flourishing output and conversion rate per capita and diamond trade and industry. This city has become the world’s Flanders’ Plastic Vision, a plastics principal diamond centre, accounting for more than half of the competence pole. diamond activity around the globe. Petro-chemical storage facilities built for a flexible supply chain - Katoennatie, Antwerp © Tom D’haenens supply chain - Katoennatie, Antwerp © a flexible facilities built for storage Petro-chemical INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 51 52

ICT in Flanders

The Strategic Research Centres are constantly developing cuttingedge technologies and processes that will shape tomorrow’s society. At the entry of a 5 meters wide weaving machine - Van De Wiele, © Tom D’haenens © Tom Kortrijk De Wiele, At the entry of a 5 meters wide weaving machine - Van Glass plate coated with gold nanoparticles and functionalized with self-assembled monolayers to bind specific biomarkers © Imec nanoparticles and functionalized with self-assembled monolayers to bind specific biomarkers Glass plate coated with gold

In the area of ICT, Flanders has built up a cartography, location-based services, geo-ICT, ICT enterprises in Flanders also work imec is Europe’s leading research centre solid global reputation in nanotechnology and in telecommunication and network closely with Knowledge Centres in order on Nanoelectronics and Nanotechnology. and e-commerce security, banking solutions, equipment. Digital audio/video and printing to solve a specific technical problem, www.imec.be telematics and geo-ICT, telecoms and solutions, and a wide range of software support technological innovation or test network equipment, digital audio/video and products – from industrial design to products. These Strategic Research Centres VITO is committed to technological printing solutions, and software products. gaming – complete the picture. The region is are constantly developing cutting-edge research and consulting for product In addition to its enviable reputation in one of Europe’s most densely cabled regions. technologies and processes that will shape innovation and improved levels of Nanoelectronics, Nanotechnology and It is therefore an excellent market for all tomorrow’s society. They are cooperative business. www.vito.be Microelectronics, Flanders is also a pioneer kinds of broadband applications. Other ICT partnerships with an international scope in financial security solutions and smart- niches in which Flanders has a firm foothold and a permanent infrastructure: card technology. Furthermore, Flanders are logistics, mobile communications and iMinds is Flanders’ research institute for also offers expertise in telematics, GPS, healthcare. tomorrow’s ICT. Scientists in the NERF lab. © Imec INVEST IN FLANDERS. TRADE WITH FLANDERS 53 INTRIGUED

BY FLANDERS © Gruber Images of Geraardsbergen Wall

Visit Flanders wants to sustainably develop tourism Visit in and to Flanders-Brussels as an economic driver for growth. We wish to achieve higher returns, employment Flanders and wellbeing. Visit Flanders’ vision is to invest together in the sustainable development and promotion of Flanders-Brussels as a prime tourism destination. www.visitflanders.com

Arts Flanders is a communications platform, which Arts enables non-Belgian cultural professionals, media and intermediaries to find information about the most Flanders important art and cultural events in Flanders and abroad. It is a network comprised of discipline-specific partner information centres in conjunction with the Government of Flanders, found on the site: www.artsflanders.be.

Interested in quality products and services Flanders Flanders has to offer? Interested in setting up or expanding operations in the heart of Europe? Want to know Investment & more on how Flanders’ knowledge-based economy can be of ? If so, please do not hesitate Trade to contact Flanders Investment & Trade: www.flandersinvestmentandtrade.be

Fans of Flanders is an online interactive platform and a Become a weekly television programme. Fans of Flanders reveals Flanders and Brussels to the world and explores their Fan of Flanders culture, mainly through the eyes of expats. www.fansofflanders.be

Flanders Today is an English-language news medium Flanders for policy and opinion makers in Flanders and abroad, supported by the Government of Flanders. The Today initiative aims at bridging the gap between the policy and activities of the Government on the one hand, and the current affairs in Flanders and Belgium on the other hand. Flanders Today offers news and stories on a large variety of topics, ranging from business and politics to arts and lifestyle, all of which are tailor-made to the expat community. www.flanderstoday.eu INTRIGUED BY FLANDERS 55 6.350.765 Flanders has the highest density of people roads and railroads in the world. 13.521 km2 IN FLANDERS, 1 IN 3 PEOPLE 12.086 km HAVE A HIGHER EDUCATION BACKGROUND. 33% OF MEN 187 AND 36% OF WOMEN. different nationalities cycle routes

The Law Courts of Brussels is the largest FLANDERS court of justice in the world (26,000 m2 at ground level). It FACTS AND 3234 is bigger than Saint Chip shops Peter’s Basilica in FIGURES Rome.

Gay marriage of the Government was, as one of the % of Flanders’ total first in the world, 38 budget is spent allowed in 2003. on education.

Flanders produces 63% of the The Galeries St Belgian beers and is responsible for Hubert in Brussels, 72% of the revenue of Belgian beers. opened in 1847, are Europe’s oldest The longest tramway line in the world is the Belgian coast (42 miles), which operates shopping arcades. between and -Heist, from the French border to the Dutch border.

Flanders has more than 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, that is more per capital than France. TH IS “Flanders is a region of creators – Flanders State of the Art headstrong, sustainable, skilled and helpful people who have been passionate about knowledge FLAN and expertise for centuries. It is a story of pioneering and high- profile skill – in the past and present, as well as in the future.”

Flanders State of the Art DERS