Leuven is a university town located 30km to the east of Brussels. The first references to the town may go back to the 9th century, but it was not until the 12th century that Leuven started to flourish as an important trading center for cloth. Later, during the 15th century (i.e. in 1425) the University of Leuven was founded. Leuven has a rich heritage and various historical buildings from different centuries can be admired. Its finely sculpted Town Hall and Saint Peter's church with the famous 'Last Supper' by Thierry Bouts, are fine examples of flamboyant Gothic architecture at its best. The Baroque style can be found in St Michael's church, in the interior of the St John the Baptist's church, and in the unrivalled stucco of the Park Abbey. Other styles can be found in The Romanesque Gate, the Saint Lambert's church and the remains of the first town walls. Various other historiocal buildings belong to the patronage of the university (see below)

Next to its cultural heritage, Leuven provides an excellent environment for relaxation in its numerous bars and restaurants. The Old Market, locally known as 'the largest pub of Europe', is known for its lively nightlife, and a large collection of the famous Belgian beers are served. Beer has played an important role in Leuven's history. At present, the headquarters of the worlds largest brewery group AB Inbev are located in Leuven. First records go back to the 15th century to the 'Den Hoorn' brewery. Starting from 1717 'Den Horen' was under control of master-brewer Sebastien Artois. Around 1926, the Artois brewery started a new barley beer, naming it 'Stella', which is presently well known throughout the world as Stella Artois. This and many other Belgian beers can be enjoyed in the Leuven pubs

Further places of interest are

• Leuven's Abbeys, including St.-Gertrude's Church and Abbey, Park Abbey, Keizersberg Abbey, and Vlierbeek Abbey
• The Beguinages, i.e. the Great Beguinage, and the Small Beguinage
• The Great Market Square
• The Old Market Square
• Buildings of the Leuven University (see below).

The Catholic university of Leuven (KULeuven), founded in 1425 by Pope Martin V, is the oldest still existing catholic university in the world, and the oldest university of the Low Contries. More details on its history can be found here.

The university is housed throughout the city, owning many historical buildings. Amongst others the University Library, College of the Falcon, Pope's College, Maria Theresia College, King's College, Premonstratensian College, Arras College, Van Dale College, American College, College of the Holy Spirit, University Hall, Campus library Arenberg, Arenberg Castle, the Great Beguinage, etc.