Constructed in the 1930s as a private residence for Baron Louis Empain, the beautiful house named Villa Empain is today an excellent cultural center hosting numerous exhibitions, concerts and workshops throughout the year. The building was originally intended to be a contemporary art museum by the owner, but was used as a center for the German army in World War II and later as the Soviet Union Embassy. After falling into disrepair years later, it was taken up by a conservation project and converted into its current state by 2010. Apart from being an exhibition venue, it also provides tours to visitors where they can see its fine art deco architecture.
The National Botanic Garden of Belgium, also called the Botanic Garden Meise, is one of the largest botanic gardens in the world. It is both a research institute and a tourist attraction, with guided tours by experts who explain the garden, including pointing out rare flowers. As you walk through this garden you'll discover plants from around the world. The National Botanic Garden of Belgium also hosts art and cultural events.
Connecting the cities of Puurs and Dendermonde in Belgium, the Dendermonde–Puurs Steam Railway is a vintage railway that is preserved by the Belgische Vrienden van de Stoomlocomotief. It has diesel and steam locomotives. A popular attraction for movie-shoots, the railway line passes through four scenic destinations, each of which can be explored easily on a bike or simply on foot.
Located in the Dilbeek municipality in Pajottenland, the Watermill Sint-Gertrudis-Pede is a protected national monument and a popular tourist attraction. Originally constructed in the 13th Century, it was destroyed and rebuilt numerous times over the ages and today is the oldest functioning mill in the region.
The Cauchie House is a beautiful house museum which was a private home of Paul Cauchie, constructed in 1905. He studied architecture in Antwerp and applied his talent to enhance the décor of the house. Ground floor of the house features ancient decorative designs and furniture while the other floors are renovated as contemporary apartments. The basement area is transformed as a Gallery where a collection of Paul and Lina Cauchie’s paintings are exhibited. There are group tours available to view the historical architecture and art works displayed in the Cauchie House. The Gallery area is also available on rental basis for conducting private events.
One of the oldest churches in the city, the imposing structure of Collégiale Saint Vincent stands out among the smaller rural houses that surround it. Dating way back to the 12th century, the church is a fine example of Romanesque architecture and is most notable for its intricate carvings, gargoyles and stone works. Inside, the church is a site of serenity, peppered with typical medieval features and a collection of sculptures.