Hasselt: The City of Jenever and Quirky Sights

Hasselt may not be as famous as Brussels or Bruges, but it definitely has its own unique brand of charm. Situated in the Flemish region of Belgium, Hasselt is known for its delicious jenever (a type of gin) and its somewhat quirky attractions. Here’s a lighthearted guide to this offbeat city.

History

Hasselt’s history can be traced back to the 7th century, when a group of monks established a settlement near the Herkenrode Abbey. In the following centuries, Hasselt grew into a bustling trade center, thanks to its strategic location on the Demer River.

While the city has seen its fair share of wars and conflicts, it has also flourished creatively. This is most evident in the city’s whimsical sights, from a giant statue of a pissing boy (yes, really) to a street lined with giant bronze snails.

Jenever

If you visit Hasselt, you simply must try its famous jenever. Made with malted barley, rye, and botanicals like juniper berries, jenever is a traditional Belgian and Dutch spirit that predates gin. It’s usually served in a tulip-shaped glass and sipped slowly, making it the perfect drink to enjoy while people-watching on one of the city’s terraces.

For a truly immersive jenever experience, head to the Jenever Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the history and production of this beloved spirit and even get to taste some for yourself.

Quirky Sights

Hasselt is home to several offbeat sights that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are a few that you won’t want to miss:

The Pissing Boy

Perhaps Hasselt’s most famous landmark, the Pissing Boy statue (officially called “Het Juliaan Lampensplein”) depicts a naked little boy peeing into a fountain. The sculpture is said to bring good luck to those who rub its head, but don’t worry if you forget to bring a coin - the statue pees actual water just for fun.

The Stained Glass Dress

Located in the Hasselt Fashion Museum, the Stained Glass Dress is a work of art by Belgian designer Walter Van Beirendonck. Made entirely of stained glass, the dress is a striking example of Van Beirendonck’s avant-garde style.

The Bronze Snail Street

For a truly surreal experience, take a stroll down the Jenever Museum’s street, which is lined with giant bronze snail sculptures. Not only are these snails quirky, but they’re also surprisingly intricate and detailed.

In Conclusion

Hasselt may not be a big or a famous city, but it certainly has its own unique attractions to offer. From sipping jenever to admiring quirky works of art, you’re sure to have a memorable time in this charming Flemish hub.