Hasselt: A Hidden Gem with a Radiant Spirit
As you step into the streets of Hasselt, it might not strike you with the same magnetic charm as other Belgian cities like Bruges or Ghent. However, hidden beneath its seemingly unassuming surface lies a city teeming with warm hospitality and delightful surprises. In fact, the town is so affectionately renowned for its convivial atmosphere that it acquired the status as the "most sociable city of Flanders." So, let us embark together on a voyage to uncover the intriguing tales and experiences that make Hasselt the hidden gem it is.
First, a stroll down the memory lane, taking us back to the 7th century. It was at this time when Hasselt emerged into existence on the banks of Heelbeek, a tributary of the Demer river. Its name, Hasaluth, speaks of the hazelwood that was once abundant in the region. Throughout the centuries, Hasselt evolved into a city adorned with captivating buildings such as St. Quentin's Cathedral, the Abbey of Herkenrode in Kuringen, and Refugehuis, the city's oldest building. Alongside these architectural wonders stand numerous museums, offering glimpses into the area's rich history and culture.
As we weave through the city's streets, we find ourselves drawn to the buzzing shopping scene with streets like Demerstraat and Koning Albertstraat that keep shopaholics entertained. Boutiques in Hoogstraat and Kapelstraat boast premium-priced items, a testament to the city's unbridled appetite for the finer things in life. Every corner of Hasselt emanates the essence of good manners and etiquette, making visitors feel at ease and welcomed.
Wandering farther afield, we come across the enchanting Japanese Garden. Its meticulously designed landscape showcases the breathtaking beauty of 17th-century Japanese gardening, a gift to Hasselt from its sister city, Itami. This garden, the largest of its kind in Europe, bursts into life with the vibrant colors of 250 Japanese cherry trees every spring, immersing visitors in an authentic experience of Japanese culture.
Next, we're beckoned to the heart of Hasselt, the Saint Quintinus Cathedral, whose hallowed walls testify the town's first settlements ever formed. The cathedral and its tower narrate the city's architectural evolution, revealing remnants of the 12th-century Romanesque church that once stood in its place.
Our journey takes us to Kapelstraat, where history converges with spirituality at the Church of Our Lady. Originally a 14th-century chapel constructed by the Our Lady Virga Jesse fraternity, the church is now home to a revered Madonna statue from the same era. Visitors also marvel at the spectacular Baroque altar and the tombs of the Abbey of Herkenrode's abbesses, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship from times gone by.
There is no dearth of activities awaiting visitors to Hasselt. Wandering through its museums offers a treasure trove of stories, from the history of the local drink, jenever, at the National Genever Museum, to chronicles of fashion at the Fashion Museum, and glimpses into the region's past at the Stellingwerff-Waerdenhof Museum.
As we rest upon the benches lining the pedestrian sidewalks, we turn to admire Hasselt's vibrant food culture. From classic mussels and mayonnaise to the much-debated origin of "French" fries, culinary curiosities abound. With a rich tapestry of cuisines ranging from traditional Flemish dishes and Mediterranean flavors to ethnic and continental fare, every taste is catered for. The experience is rounded off with decadent biscuits and waffles adorned with chocolate and icing sugar.
Should you choose to stay longer, Hasselt offers an array of accommodation options from the cozy Parkhotel NV to the well-located Ibis Hasselt Centrum, and delightful Express By Holiday Inn Hasselt to the luxurious Holiday Inn Hasselt.
Looking for entertainment? Hasselt does not disappoint. Enthralling events at Ethias Arena and Grenslandhallen range from engaging concerts, to awe-inspiring theatrical shows - a perfect platform for both the common public and businesses alike. And the annual Pukkelpop festival at Kiewit caters to diverse musical tastes, even hosting musical festivals like Rimpelrock specifically tailored to those over 50 years of age.
So, let's reflect, shall we? Beyond the well-trodden paths of Belgium's more famous cities, lies the welcoming spirit of Hasselt. It beckons us to wander through its streets, discovering the stories hidden beneath its unassuming facade, forged by centuries of history and the warmth of its people. Embrace the opportunity and venture forth into a town that embodies the essence of hospitality, compelling us to explore deeper and emerge richer for it. In Hasselt, our journey toward self-discovery flourishes, as we immerse ourselves in the extraordinary richness of a city that knows no bounds.
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