Overijse
From Free net encyclopedia
Overijse is a municipality in the province of Flemish Brabant, in Flanders, one of the three regions of Belgium. The municipality only comprises the town of Overijse proper. On January 1 2005 Overijse had a total population of 24,084. The total area is 44.43 km² which gives a population density of 542.03 inhabitants per km². Overijse is surrounded by a lot of green areas (Zonien woud/Forêt de Soignes), with walk- and bicycle paths. This gives great possibilities for leisure time. The commune has a huge numbers of expats, and it is considered as a very residential area to live in.
The official language is Dutch (as everywhere in Flanders). Small local minorities consist of nationals from many European Union-countries, USA and Canada, and of French-speakers that migrated mainly from Wallonia or Brussels.
Near Overijse there is a medium wave transmitter for the Belgian foreign radio service. Overijse has a traditional festival every year, held in August (Druivenfeesten). The festival commemorates the industry that shaped the area, namely cultivation of grapes (druiven). In 2006 it will be held in the period 19 - 27th of August.
Overijse was also the birthplace of one of the most famous 16th century humanists in history, Justus Lipsius.
External links
- Official website - Only available in Dutch
Image:Kerkoverijse.jpgde:Overijse eo:Overijse fr:Overijse nl:Overijse
