Bilzen: A Charming City in the Heart of Limburg
Located in the Belgian province of Limburg, Bilzen is a charming city with a rich history and culture. With a population of 32,536 inhabitants as of 2021, Bilzen offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. The city's total area of 75.90 km² translates to a moderate population density of 426 inhabitants per km², providing residents with ample space to live and work.
Bilzen is composed of the city center and several surrounding villages, including Eigenbilzen, Waltwilder, Martenslinde, Munsterbilzen, Rijkhoven, and more. These villages were merged into a single municipality in 1977, forming the city of Bilzen as we know it today.
The city's strategic location makes it an attractive place to live, with several major cities within easy reach. Genk lies just north, while Maastricht (Netherlands) is only a short drive eastward. Tongeren and Diepenbeek are also nearby, offering access to employment opportunities, education, and cultural events.
Bilzen's cultural scene has historically been vibrant, hosting the renowned Jazz Bilzen festival from 1965 to 1981. During its heyday, the festival welcomed legendary artists such as Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Rod Stewart, and Aerosmith, among many others. Although the festival eventually gave way to Rock Werchter in the 1980s, Bilzen's rich musical heritage lives on.
Despite its relatively small size, Bilzen offers a range of amenities and services, including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and cultural attractions. The city's overall score of B reflects its balanced quality of life, with strengths in areas like childcare and education (B), as well as noise levels (B+). However, some aspects, such as commute times (B-) and health scores (C+), present opportunities for improvement.
Overall, Bilzen is a charming and welcoming city that offers residents an excellent balance between urban convenience and rural tranquility. Its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an attractive place to call home.