The word Brussels is undeniably linked with its amazing 'Grand Place', to its freshly restored Atmium and to the warmth of its inhabitants. Everyone thinks he knows Brussels but...Do you know that Brussels is a port?
It's a port with a central position, in the very heart of the Belgian metropolis. If it is not very famous among the general public, its influence is not to be underestimated. With its 300 firms, its 12 000 jobs generated, its 4 250 000 000 euros of turnover and its 6 millions of goods passing through every year, Brussels port can without any doubts compete with a port like Zeebrugge. Its accessibility is exceptional for an inland port. In the North, Brussles is directly linked with the Scheldt and the North Sea via the Willebroek Canal, built in the 50's. In the South, the Charleroi- Brussels Canal offers among others the possibility to sail to Dunkirk, Liege and Lille. While sailing, you can admire the impressive hydraulic constructions like the inclined plane of Ronquières and the lifts of Strépy-Thieu. It is thanks to its particular situation that Brussels has the status of a maritime port.
A few years ago, the canal had a bad reputation among the people living in Brussels. Now, it is becoming one of the most pleasant places of the capital. A lot has been done for its development. The steep is rising in property prices and you can see many bicycles and roller skates on the edges. We are certain that once again this year 'Bruxelles les Bains' will have nothing to envy to 'Paris-plage'. Valérie Motmans (St.)
