Stepping into Belgium’s past and present, our delegates explored the historic cities of Ghent and Antwerp - both gems of European heritage that have shaped trade, culture, and politics for centuries.
In Ghent, once the second-largest city in medieval Europe after Paris, we walked through its cobbled streets, admiring architectural masterpieces like St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the world-famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. We stood before the imposing Gravensteen Castle, a symbol of the Counts of Flanders’ power, and learned how Ghent played a pivotal role in European trade and textile production during the 13th century.
Antwerp, often called the ‘Diamond Capital of the World,’ continues to process over 80% of the world’s rough diamonds. We visited its historic port, once the world’s busiest in the 16th century, and learned about its role in global commerce, from the Renaissance era to today. The city is also home to the world’s oldest stock exchange, founded in 1531, highlighting its deep-rooted financial legacy.
Beyond history, this experience was an immersion into culture - tasting authentic Belgian waffles, interacting with locals, and understanding how these cities balance tradition with modernity.
For Indian students, learning from such global landmarks isn’t just about travel - it’s about broadening perspectives, understanding global governance, and seeing firsthand how history, economics, and culture shape nations.
From the grandeur of medieval castles to the bustling diamond district, this journey was more than sightseeing - it was education beyond textbooks.
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