Saint-Gilles-Lez-Bruxelles (Belgium)

Saint-Gilles-lez-Bruxelles is an independent district in the south of the Belgian capital and has around 44,000 inhabitants. It draws its economic strength from shoe and leather goods, pharmaceutical production and services.

The iris in the city's coat of arms is not only a reminder of the once marshy surroundings in which the lily bloomed profusely. It also points to an eventful history. This lily adorned the sceptre of Charlemagne's descendants. Including that of Charlemagne of France, who was appointed Duke of Lower Lorraine by Emperor Otto II in 977. Charlemagne had established a fortified camp in "Bruoczella", which he elevated to the capital of his duchy in 979. 979 is therefore the year in which the city of Brussels was founded.

Our Saint-Gilles was a rural settlement with wine and vegetable cultivation when it was granted city rights in 1222. Over the centuries, it became an industrial and commercial city. When you look at Saint-Gilles, you see Brussels, which derives its status not only from its function as the capital of the European Union. It is an international trade center with numerous important trade fairs and ranks third in the world as a congress center.

It ranks 7th among the financial markets. More than 2000 foreign companies are represented in Brussels, including 1400 American branches and 60 foreign banks. There are also numerous professional associations with international interests. But the manufacturing industry is also worth mentioning. Around 20 percent of all Belgian exports come from the Brussels region.

Brussels' weight is increased by the institutions of the EU, the location of more than 120 international governmental organizations and around 1,400 internationally active organizations with no connection to a government. 159 embassies and 2500 diplomats make Brussels an important diplomatic center. Brussels is the seat of the EU Commission and its subordinate bodies. The European Parliament meets here.

The charms of the cityscape are also not to be overlooked. The town hall in the French Renaissance style is admired. The Grande Place with its magnificent buildings is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.

Of course, Saint-Gilles is also responsible for the high reputation of Brussels' gastronomy, which is raved about by EU officials and tourists alike.

Saint-Gilles' membership of the twinning ring, which was established in 1956, has been considered dormant since the mid-1980s without having been dissolved.