If you have only stayed in Antwerp, Bruges and/or Brussels, you would think that there are only two national languages in Belgium, Dutch and French. In reality, there is a third one, namely German. Indeed, there is a small community of German-speaking Belgians in the east of the country, in the province of Liège. After World War I, this part of our country actually belonged to Germany and came back to Belgian territory after World War II. Nowadays, this Community has its own small university, judicial and administrative system and its own football team.
Eupen is the capital of the German-speaking Community. With about 20.000 inhabitants, it is relatively small and hasn't got the hustle and bustle of the Belgian capital. This was the first thing that struck us: the laidback atmosphere. And although German is the official language here, most people speak fluent French as well.
First up, a stroll through the center of town. And just like everywhere else in Belgium, most bars and restaurants had put tables and chairs outside, although the weather did not look very promising.
After our visit to the local tourist information office, we went to the St. Nikolaus church, with its two distinctive towers.
By the way, Eupen is a compact town, so you can easily walk from one attraction to another.
Before choosing one of the many restaurants, Lars and I went for a refreshing walk in the Josephine-Koch-Park. The name refers to a catholic nun (1815 - 1899) who founded the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of the Holy Family, of which she became the first Superior General. To be more precise, this congregation takes care of the sick. There is a statue of this sister in the park.
We concluded our first day with an excellent dinner in an Italian restaurant and unfortunately forgot to take pictures there.
