Whether you’re looking to quench your thirst for knowledge or just your thirst, Leuven is the ideal place. This youthful town is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, and history is ever present. A few lucky students and faculty even have the distinct privilege of living in the 13th century stone beguinage selected as a world heritage site by UNESCO. And where there are students... there is beer, and Leuven is Belgium’s reigning brew capital – no mean feat in a country that produces hundreds of delicious varieties.

The university, one of the oldest and most important in Europe, has its roots in the center of Leuven, and its historic college buildings dominate many of the squares and streets. The university and its 28,000 students and professors have a special tie with Leuven, which has existed since the university’s foundation in 1425.

Leuven is the headquarters of Inbev, famous for Stella Artois beers. Centuries of Flemish tradition and craftsmanship lie behind Leuven’s premium brews. The history of Stella Artois is closely connected with the history of Leuven. Around the turn of the century the brewing of the golden Pilsbeer of low fermentation was started up at Artois. In 1926 the brewery brought a barley beer onto the market and called it with the name 'Stella', the Latin word for 'Star'.

During a visit to the brewery, you’ll discover all the secrets of the brewing process. The tour lasts about an hour and ends, appropriately, with a delicious Stella Artois. For information on visiting hours http://www.brouwerijbezoeken.be/stella_breweryvisit.php

For information on our beers in general http://www.visitflanders.us/index.php?page=beer-lovers