Belgium, a country often recognized for its rich history, delectable chocolates, and world-class beers, is geographically positioned in the western part of Europe. To pinpoint exactly Where Are Belgium, it shares borders with several prominent European nations. The Netherlands lies to its north, while Germany and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg are situated to the east. To the south and west, Belgium is bordered by France. Despite its relatively compact size, covering an area of just 30,688 square kilometers, Belgium’s strategic location has cemented its role as a vital economic and urban hub in the heart of Europe.
To get a more precise understanding of where is belgium on the global map, we can look at its geographical coordinates. Belgium extends across 2 degrees of latitude, ranging from 51 degrees 30 minutes North at Meerle, its northernmost point, down to 49 degrees 30 minutes North at Torgny, its southernmost point. In terms of longitude, Belgium spans less than 4 degrees, stretching from 2 degrees 33 minutes East to 6 degrees 24 minutes East. These coordinates place Belgium within a temperate climate zone and contribute to its accessible location within Western Europe.
Delving into the geography of where is belgium, the country can be broadly divided into three distinct geographical areas based on elevation. Lower Belgium, characterized by flat landscapes, lies at altitudes of up to 100 meters above sea level. Moving inland, Central Belgium features gently rolling hills and elevations ranging between 100 and 200 meters above sea level. Finally, Upper Belgium, located in the southern and southeastern parts of the country, presents a more varied topography with altitudes climbing from 200 to over 500 meters above sea level in regions like the Ardennes.
For those seeking in-depth geographical information, the National Geography Institute (NGI) of Belgium is a key resource. This governmental institution offers a wealth of information and services for both specialists and the general public. The NGI is renowned for producing and selling detailed topographical and tourist maps in various formats, including paper, books, and digital media like CD-ROMs and DVDs. Beyond maps, their documentation center houses a valuable photo library, a comprehensive catalogue system, and a scientific library, making it an invaluable resource for geographical research and exploration. Notably, the NGI’s atlas, ‘België in kaart’, received international recognition in 2007, highlighting the quality and expertise of the institute.
Another essential institution for understanding the environment of where is belgium is the Royal Institute of Meteorology (KMI – IRM). The KMI provides crucial weather information, offering both abbreviated and detailed weather forecasts for Belgium, covering current and upcoming days. They also issue timely warnings about potentially dangerous meteorological events, ensuring public safety. For convenient access to weather updates, the KMI even provides an SMS information service. Beyond daily forecasts, the KMI conducts scientific research and offers information on broader climate topics such as the ozone layer and solar radiation. Furthermore, in practical terms, the KMI provides official weather records that can be vital for supporting insurance claims related to weather damage, demonstrating its relevance to both individuals and businesses in Belgium.
