Forming part of the Brussels-Capital Region’s “Green Belt”, Zaventem is a historic town once owned by the Abbey of Nivelles. It was established at an important crossroads along the banks of the River Woluwe and became known for its water mills. In the 18th century, Zaventem transformed from an agricultural community into an industrial hub for paper making and leather tanning.
Things to do in Zaventem
One of Zaventem’s most important historic buildings is the Church of Saint Martin, which was constructed in 1567. Admire its Gothic exterior and soaring spire before stepping inside to explore the vaulted interior. In addition to beautiful stained glass windows, it houses a painting of “Saint Martin Dividing his Cloak” by Anthony van Dyck.
With a history dating back to the 13th century, the Stockmansmolen is the only watermill remaining in Zaventem. It passed through the hands of the Van der Beke and Vanden Bossche families before being sold to Karel de Velder, who stopped water from flowing through the mill to flood Dutch troops during the Belgian Revolution. Once used to grind grains and make paper, the mill is now home to a beloved restaurant.
Zaventem makes an excellent base for discovering the sights of Brussels, including the grandiose Grand Place and the Parc Du Cinquantenaire. Marvel at the works by Flemish masters at the Musee Royaux Beaux-Arts and visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral of the Notre Dame Du Sablon. Musical concerts and performance arts regularly take place in the 19th-century glasshouse of Le Botanique.
Getting around Zaventem
Zaventem is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Brussels and just five minutes from Brussels Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Zaventem railway station and buses travel through the town, connecting most of its attractions.