Eupen - Belgium
Located in the heart of Europe, Eupen is a charming city situated in the Belgian province of Liège, near the borders with Germany and the Netherlands. As the capital of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, Eupen boasts a unique cultural identity that sets it apart from other cities in the region.
With a rich history dating back to 1213, Eupen has been influenced by various rulers, including the Duchy of Limburg, Brabant, Burgundy, and France. In 1815, the city was given to Prussia, which later became part of the German Empire. However, after World War I, the Treaty of Versailles transferred Eupen to Belgium in 1919. This complex history has shaped the city's architecture, language, and traditions.
Today, Eupen is a thriving community with a population of around 18,248 people, as recorded on January 1, 2006. The city covers an area of approximately 103.74 km², resulting in a moderate population density of 175.90 inhabitants per km². German remains the official language, and many residents also speak the local Eupen dialect.
Eupen offers a range of amenities, scoring B+ for its overall amenities score. While it may not be perfect, the city provides a good balance of services, shopping, and entertainment options. Commuting is relatively straightforward, with a score of B-, although some residents might find the traffic and parking situations challenging at times.
In terms of health, Eupen scores a respectable B, indicating that residents have access to adequate medical facilities and services. The city also boasts a small university, the Fachhochschule des deutschen Sprachraums Belgiens (Haute École de la Communauté germanophone), which offers bachelor's degrees in Education and Nursing.
Culture is an integral part of Eupen's identity, with a score of B reflecting its rich heritage. The city hosts various cultural events throughout the year, celebrating its German-speaking roots and European connections. Football fans will be delighted to know that Eupen has a professional team, K.A.S. Eupen, which plays in the Belgian Pro League.
While childcare and education options are available, scoring B-, some families might find the choices limited compared to larger cities. Additionally, noise levels are relatively high, with a score of C+, due to its proximity to major roads and industrial areas.
Overall, Eupen is an attractive city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Its strategic location near European borders makes it an excellent base for exploring the region, while its compact size ensures a strong sense of community among residents.
Eupen
Country: Belgium
Population: 19526
Elevation: 260.0 metre
Area: 103.74 square kilometre
Web: https://www.eupen.be/