10 facts about the Benelux that might surprise you...

SHANGHAI (The Benelux Chamber of Commerce) – The Benelux region, consisting of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, is a fascinating and culturally diverse part of Europe. The three countries foreshadowed and provided the model for future European integration, such as the European Coal and Steel Community, the European Economic Community (EEC), and the European Community–European Union (EC–EU). The three partners also launched the Schengen process, which came into operation in 1985. While many people may be familiar with some aspects of these countries, there are several intriguing facts that often go unnoticed. In this article, we will delve into nine things you might not know about the Benelux region, uncovering three unique aspects about each country.

Belgium can function without a government

“How can a country run without an active government?” Belgium presents a fascinating aspect as it possesses the ability to operate without a government. As a federal state, the country features a central government alongside three distinct regions, each governing themselves. These regions are Wallonia, Flanders, and Brussels-Capital. The process of establishing a central government involving all three regions can be quite intricate, resulting in significant delays. For instance, between 2019 and 2020, an astonishing 652 days were required to form a federal government.

The world map we know was drawn by a Belgian.

When you use an online map to get directions or explore the location of a new restaurant, chances are you're relying on one of Belgium's most famous inventions: the Mercator projection. It was created in 1569 by Gerardus Mercator, a Belgian cartographer, and quickly gained popularity as the go-to world map that accounted for the Earth's spherical shape. The Mercator projection became particularly useful for navigation purposes, as it maintained accurate directional bearing through its rhumb lines. These lines are straight segments that intersect all meridians at the same angle, enabling navigators to plot straight-line courses.

Pharmaceuticals

The initial birth control pill introduced in the United States in 1957 was plagued by side effects : it wasn't until 1961 that Belgian obstetrician and gynecologist Ferdinand Peeters developed an enhanced version, allowing widespread use of the pill among women. Dr. Peeters' Belgian-made pill marked the first globally utilized combined oral contraception that presented 'acceptable' side effects, extending its impact beyond the borders of the United States.

The National Anthem is the oldest in the world

The Wilhelmus serves as the national anthem of the Netherlands. While it officially gained this status in 1932, its music traces back to at least 1572, making it the oldest melody used in a national anthem. The origin of the lyrics remains uncertain, but they are believed to be at least 400 years old.

The Netherlands was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage

On April 1, 2001, the Netherlands achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. To commemorate this occasion, Job Cohen, the mayor of Amsterdam at the time, conducted midnight marriages for four couples. Since then, numerous same-sex couples have joyfully exchanged vows. Amsterdam further solidifies its reputation as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities globally, boasting a vibrant array of gay bars. Additionally, visitors can admire the Homomonument in the city center, which stands as a tribute to gay men and women.

The Dutch invented gin

This intriguing fact harkens back to the 16th century when the Dutch pioneered gin, known as jenever, and introduced it to the British. Its popularity soared in Great Britain when William of Orange, also known as King William III, ascended to the English, Irish, and Scottish thrones. Curious about the origin of the phrase 'Dutch courage'? Legend has it that it stems from the time when both the British and the Dutch consumed gin during the Thirty Years' War, spanning from 1618 to 1648.

Nearly half of Luxembourg’s workforce commutes to work in Luxembourg from another country

The economy of Luxembourg heavily relies on cross-border workers, with a significant portion of its workforce consisting of individuals commuting from neighboring countries. French workers, Belgians and Germans constitute the majority of non-Luxembourg citizens crossing the border for employment. The country's efficient and free public transportation system further facilitates seamless travel across the border.

There are 17km of underground tunnels cut out of the solid rock beneath Luxembourg City

The Bock and Pétrusse casemates form an intricate network that served as a vital part of the city's defense system. Initially constructed in 1644, these underground fortifications underwent subsequent expansions in the following decades and the 18th century, reaching impressive depths of up to 40 meters. Throughout the two World Wars, they functioned as air-raid shelters, capable of safeguarding up to 35,000 individuals. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these casemates are now accessible to the public, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's history.

The Schengen Agreements, which allow Europeans to travel freely across European borders, were signed in Luxembourg

In the picturesque Moselle region of Luxembourg, in the tiny village of Schengen, two significant agreements were signed in 1985 and 1990. This village, nestled at the meeting point of Luxembourg, France, and Germany, serves as a symbol of freedom of movement and the elimination of internal borders. The Schengen agreements mark a milestone in European integration, promoting seamless travel and facilitating cross-border cooperation among the participating nations.

Forests cover more than a third of the country

And just over half of them have private owners...