Ten fun facts about Belgium

Belgium
Is a federal state in Western Europe.


Fast facts 
Population
11,203,787

Sources
CIA The World Factbook

Fact 1:
As a federal state located in western Europe, Belgium is officially called the Kingdom of Belgium.

Fact 2:
Belgium is the European Union's founding member and it acts as its headquarters.

Fact 3:
Belgium covers an area of roughly 30,528 square kilometers. This equals out to be 11,787 square miles. 

Fact 4:
Belgium was nicknamed the "cockfighting arena of Europe" due to the fact that many of the wars between the various powers in Europe fought in Belgium.

Fact 5:
In 1914 Belgium was invaded by Germany.

Fact 6:
Due to the excesses taken by Germany, the beginning months of this war was known as the "Rape of Belgium".

Fact 7:
There are three language communities in Belgium, which include the German speaking group, the Flemish speaking group, and the French speaking group. 

Fact 8:
Within Belgium, there are three different regions with some being divided into provinces. 

Fact 9:
The Flemish Region is further divided into five different provinces. The Walloon region is further divided into five different provinces. Then there is the Brussels Capital Region. 

Fact 10:
Belgium is bordered by Germany, Luxembourg, France, and the Netherlands.