Travel destination Hasselt
Travel Destination Hasselt
My journey to Antwerp took me through Hasselt. It's a city definitely worth a closer look! There's a lot to see and do here. Hasselt is the capital of the Belgian province of Limburg and is known for its vibrant culture and history. The city has a population of about 80,846 people (as of August 1, 2023). Hasselt is often called the "City of Taste," thanks to its local jenever distilleries, the Hasselt Jenever Festival, and Hasselt speculaas.
The city has a rich history dating back to the 7th century when it was founded on the Helbeek, a tributary of the Demer. In the Middle Ages, Hasselt became one of the free cities of the County of Loon and received city rights in 1232, similar to those of Liège.
Today, Hasselt is a commercial and administrative center with a mix of historic landmarks and modern amenities. Notable places include the Sint-Quintinus Cathedral, the Fashion Museum Hasselt, and the Japanese Garden, the largest Japanese garden in Europe. Additionally, Hasselt is known for its free public transportation, making the city particularly pedestrian-friendly.
Sights in Hasselt:
Japanese Garden: Europe’s largest Japanese garden impresses with its ponds, bridges, and pavilions.
Sint-Quintinus Cathedral: The Sint-Quintinus Cathedral in Hasselt is the episcopal church of the Catholic Diocese of Hasselt, established in 1967, which encompasses the Belgian province of Limburg.
Sint-Truiden Church: The Gothic church from the 15th century houses the famous treasure of Sint-Truiden.
Hasselt Beguinage: The former Beguinage, built in the 13th century, is now a museum of modern art.
Government Building: The imposing provincial house in the neoclassical style dates back to the 19th century.
Demer Beach: Relax on the banks of the Demer River and enjoy nature.
Street Art: Hasselt is known for its street art scene with over 100 artworks throughout the city.
Japanese Garden Hasselt
The Japanese Garden in Hasselt is a haven of tranquility and beauty, representing traditional Japanese garden art in Belgium. Opened in 1992, it is the result of a partnership between the city of Hasselt and its Japanese twin city, Itami. Spanning 2.5 hectares, the garden is the largest of its kind in Europe.
Visitors can enjoy the harmonious landscape, carefully designed with plants, water features, and rock arrangements. The garden is divided into various sections, including a ceremonial garden, a tea garden, and a Zen garden, all reflecting elements of Japanese culture and philosophy.
The garden serves not only as a place for peace and meditation but also as a venue for cultural events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place every spring and attracts visitors eager to witness the spectacular bloom of the cherry trees.
Sint-Quintinus Cathedral, Hasselt
The Sint-Quintinus Cathedral in Hasselt serves as the episcopal church of the Catholic Diocese of Hasselt, established in 1967 and encompassing the Belgian province of Limburg. The church is dedicated to Saint Quintin (also known as Sint-Kwinten in Dutch). Construction began in the 11th century and continued for two centuries. In 1967, it was elevated to cathedral status upon the founding of the Diocese of Hasselt.
The Sint-Quintinus Cathedral is a striking example of Romanesque architecture. It has been expanded over the centuries and features Gothic windows and frescoes. The church tower dates back to 1725 and was restored in the 19th century. During this time, Gothic stained-glass windows and paintings from the Herkenrode Abbey were added. The walls are also adorned with frescoes by local artist Godfried Guffens.
The cathedral houses artworks spanning many centuries, beginning in the 15th century. Since 1993, the cathedral has been classified as a protected monument.
Activities in Hasselt:
Shopping: Hasselt offers a diverse shopping scene with boutiques, concept stores, and shopping streets.
Enjoy the local cuisine: Sample the famous Hasselt Genever, a juniper-flavored spirit, and taste the traditional Speculoos cookies.
Visit the markets: Hasselt has several markets, including the weekly Saturday market and the annual Genever market.
Explore nature: Hike or bike in the Jagersborgpark or visit the Bokrijk Open Air Museum, an open-air museum with historic buildings.
Experience culture: Visit the Hasselt Centrum or Het Jeugdtheater for theater performances, concerts, or exhibitions.
Street Art Hasselt:
I recommend renting a holiday home for your trip to Belgium, you can best do this here:
Pictures from Hasselt:
For more pictures of Hasselt, please visit Gretchen's Instagram:
Events in Hasselt:
Pukkelpop: This renowned rock festival takes place every August.
Hasselt Kermis: The traditional folk festival in August attracts visitors with rides, music, and delicious food.
Winter Wonderland: During the Christmas season, the Grote Markt transforms into a magical winter market.
Hasselt: An Oasis of Beauty and Culture
Hasselt, the capital of Limburg, is a place where history and modernity merge harmoniously. The city is renowned for its picturesque streets, lined with old buildings, cafes, and boutiques. Here, you can stroll through centuries of architecture, from Romanesque churches to modern art galleries.
A highlight is the Sint-Quintinus Cathedral, an impressive example of Romanesque architecture. Its Gothic windows and frescoes tell stories of bygone eras. The 18th-century tower offers breathtaking views of the city.
Hasselt is also a paradise for gourmets. Jenever, a traditional Belgian spirit, is still distilled here according to old recipes. In the city's cozy cafes and restaurants, you can savor local specialties such as Limburg cheese and prune beer.
The city is a goldmine for art lovers. The Modemuseum Hasselt showcases contemporary fashion and design, while the Z33 features changing exhibitions. The streets are vibrant with street art, reflecting the city's creative soul.
Hasselt is also a green paradise. The Japanese Garden is a place of peace and beauty, with ponds, bridges, and exotic plants. At the Bokrijk Open Air Museum, you can step back in time and admire historic buildings from all over Belgium.
The people of Hasselt are warm and proud of their city. They invite visitors to share in their way of life. Whether strolling through the abbey beer garden or strolling along the Kolonel Dusartplein, you'll immediately feel welcome.
There's always something to discover in Hasselt. Whether you're wandering through the narrow streets, exploring the art scene, or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, this city captivates with its diversity and charm.
Where is Hasselt located?
Hasselt is a city in the province of Limburg in the Flemish Region of Belgium. Located on the Albert Canal and the Demer River, it's approximately 45 km north of Liège and about 10 km south of the Lummen motorway junction. Not only is it the capital of the Belgian province of Limburg but it's also renowned for its jenever industry and serves as a significant commercial and administrative center.
Hasselt isn't just a city to visit, it's a city to fall in love with. Its history, people, and beauty make it a true gem in Belgium.
You can still watch my full city tour here: