Background

Geographic Center of Belgium

Visit the symbolic heart of Belgium in Walhain, where a modern monument marks the precise geographic center of the country.

3.6

Discover the symbolic heart of Belgium in Walhain, marked by a modern metal structure representing the country's regions and geographical coordinates. A point of national pride since 1998, replacing Ittre after the annexation of eastern cantons.

A brief summary to Centre géographique de la Belgique

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take a walk along the marked trail from Place du Tram to fully experience the serene valley of the Nil.
  • Visit the Walhain Tourist Office in the town hall for local maps and walking/cycling routes.
  • Explore the nearby village of Nil-Saint-Vincent for a taste of the Walloon Brabant region.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Place du Tram in Nil-Saint-Vincent, follow the marked path into the valley of the Nil. The walk to the monument is short and offers pleasant views of the surrounding countryside. The path is generally accessible, but may be uneven in places.

  • Public Transport

    Arriving by public transport, take bus lines 24, 25, 30, or 34 to the Walhain-Saint-Paul Monument stop. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Place du Tram and the path leading to the Geographic Center. A single TEC bus fare costs around €2.50 - €3.00.

  • Taxi

    From the center of Walhain-Saint-Paul, a taxi to the Place du Tram will cost approximately €10-€15. Taxis are available in Walhain, but pre-booking is recommended.

Unlock the Best of Centre géographique de la Belgique

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Centre géographique de la Belgique

The Geographic Center of Belgium, located in Nil-Saint-Vincent (Walhain), symbolizes the nation's unity and geographical significance. A metal structure marks the precise location in the valley of the Nil, known locally as “Le Tiège”. The monument, created by an architect from Walhain, incorporates symbols representing Belgium's political geography. The base signifies the earth's crust, the triangle outlines the country, and three pylons embody the three regions of Belgium. The coordinates at the pyramid's tip pinpoint the center: latitude 50°38'28" North, longitude 04°40'08" East. Before the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, the geographic center was considered to be in Ittre. However, the annexation of the eastern cantons (Eupen, Malmedy, and Saint-Vith) after World War I shifted the calculated center. It wasn't until 1995 that the French National Geographic Institute recalculated the center, with the Belgian authorities confirming the location the following year. The monument was inaugurated in Walhain on August 22, 1998. The area around the center offers a peaceful environment in the Walloon Brabant countryside. While the monument itself is the main draw, the surrounding area is ideal for walks and enjoying the natural scenery. The Place du Tram, near the monument, has historical significance as a former tram stop and a venue for traditional ball games.

Popular Experiences near Centre géographique de la Belgique

Popular Hotels near Centre géographique de la Belgique

Select Currency