Eupen, Belgium

Welcome to Eupen, a picturesque city and municipality located in the Belgian province of Liège. Eupen is the capital of the German-speaking Community of Belgium and is situated just 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the German border (Aachen), from the Dutch border (Maastricht) and from the High Fens nature reserve (Ardennes). With its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant community, Eupen is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the region.

Eupen’s history spans back to the Duchy of Limburg in 1213. Over the centuries, it has been passed between different ruling powers, including Burgundy, the Holy Roman Empire, and France. In 1815, Eupen was given to Prussia and became part of the German Empire in 1871. Following the First World War, Eupen and the nearby municipality of Malmedy were transferred from Germany to Belgium.

Today, German remains the official language in Eupen, which also serves as the capital for Belgium’s German-speaking Community. The city has a small university, the Autonome Hochschule in der deutschsprachigen Gemeinschaft, offering bachelor’s degrees in Education and Nursing. Eupen is also home to K.A.S. Eupen, the first club from the German-speaking Community to play in the Belgian Pro League.

Eupen’s climate is cool and oceanic, with some continental influences due to its elevation. The city is also wetter and cloudier than Liège due to orographic lift. As a result, Eupen gets a significant amount of snowfall and ice days each year.

Visitors to Eupen can experience the city’s rich culture by attending the Rhenish Carnival, which occurs around Rosenmontag. The Municipal Museum and Gospertstrasse are also great places to learn about the city’s history. Art lovers will enjoy the IKOB Museum of Contemporary Art and the permanent exhibition of paintings at the Christian Silvain Foundation.

Sports fans can check out K.A.S. Eupen at the 8,000-capacity Kehrweg Stadion. The team has a dedicated following and was the first from the German-speaking Community to reach the Belgian Pro League.

Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of Europe. Come discover the charm and beauty of Eupen for yourself!