Historical visit in the University Library of Leuven
Activité
€ 1 - 50
In the afternoon, second activity: we went to visit the Central Library of the University of Louvain and its tour. And it was really impressive and interesting. From the outside, the red brick facade and the tower which overlooks the square make you want to discover the interior. A guided audio tour awaited us there. Inside, we were surprised by the large, bright rooms, the carved wooden book shelves and the peaceful atmosphere that reigns here. Several students were working in the large library. It had a little Harry Potter feel to it, I think haha.
We learned that the library had been almost completely destroyed during the First World War, with the loss of thousands of books. It has apparently been rebuilt and today, it symbolizes the memory and resilience of Leuven.
We took the time to wander through the rooms, admire the architecture and even take a look at the collections and small exhibitions. Going up to the top of the tower which gives a 360 view of the entire city, each floor offered a micro exhibition about the University and the city of Louvain. Then I climbed to the top (my boyfriend has a fear of heights), and the view is incredible. There are even small signs to explain the buildings we see on the horizon. You can also see the bells and all the mechanics which are completely in view of everyone.