Leuven, the Silicon Valley of the Sixteenth Century

Today, highly skilled technicians from all over the world flock to Silicon Valley to carry out groundbreaking research. In the 16th century, they came to Leuven instead. When the Collegium Trilingue opened its doors there in 1517, Erasmus’s dream became a reality. “His” college taught the three Biblical languages—Latin, Greek and Hebrew—and trained students to analyse classical texts critically. This first “modern” college in Europe attracted researchers and scholars from around the world. Scientists such as Andreas Vesalius and Gerard Mercator found inspiration here for their pioneering work. Leuven became a melting pot of new ideas and knowledge. Local workshops turned this knowledge into refined scientific instruments for explorers and astronomers. Charles V and Philip II were also eager to acquire these prestigious products.

On this unique walk, you will travel back to a time when the printing press was still new and Martin Luther was shaking the foundations of the Church. Discover the fascinating story of Leuven as a centre of innovation and science in the very places where it all happened.

Main stops: Grote Markt, Postkantoor, Vismarkt and Collegium Trilingue, Schrijnmakersstraat – Middelpunt van Leuven, Oude Markt, Lakenhalle