In April and May, the Russian House in Brussels organized two enriching walking tours through the historic districts of the Belgian capital. The tours were led by renowned historian, Slavist philologist, and travel guide author Vladimir Ronin. Participants included B1+ level Russian language students as well as anyone interested in the city’s history.

The first tour, held on April 21, focused on Lower Brussels — the birthplace of the city. The group walked from Central Station to the Island of Saint Gaugericus, visited the legendary Grand Place, and learned a lot about the daily life of ordinary townspeople in the Middle Ages. Special attention was paid to cultural and historical ties between Belgium and Russia in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The second tour took place on May 29, with a route through the Upper Town — the area of power, aristocracy, and architectural grandeur. Participants visited the Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula, the Parliament building, and the City Park. The tour was accompanied by insightful commentary uncovering hidden aspects of history and over 300 years of Belgian-Russian relations.

Both walks offered a great opportunity not only to connect with Brussels’ centuries-old past but also to immerse oneself in a linguistic environment, discovering the city through the prism of Russian cultural perspective.