Kraainem je občina na obrobju Ljubljane Bruselj Regija glavnega mesta, upravno pripada Flamski Brabant. Začelo se je kot podeželska vas, a širitev Bruslja je v 20. stoletju privedla do hitre urbanizacije Kraainema, občina pa je postala priljubljena rezidenca evrokratov in izseljencev.
Razumeti
Zgodovina
Zgodnja zgodovina
O zgodnji zgodovini Kraainema je malo znanega, razen nekaj litičnih predmetov, najdenih med kmetijskimi dejavnostmi. Med urbanizacijo Stokkela in Južnega Kraainema je bila leta 1928 odkrita velika koncentracija artefaktov v bližini meje z St.-Pieters-Woluwe. Te najdbe so datirane v mezo in neolitik.
Ostanke rimskih naselij so odkrili konec 18. stoletja, nekoč pa je na mestu sedanje mestne hiše stala rimska vila. Znano je bilo kot Vila Crainhamin je Kraainemu dal ime. Noben od klasičnih ostankov žal ni bil ohranjen. Znano je, da Vila Crainham ostala do 11. stoletja, od leta 1003 je v listinah zapisana tudi cerkev: crainham villa cum ecclesia. The Keulsebaan prečka skozi Kraainem, ki povezuje Roman Bruselj do Köln, katerih deli so ostali še danes.
Večina sedanjega ozemlja Kraainems je v prvem tisočletju ostala nenaseljena. Severno urbanizirano območje Kraainem, Visoki Kraainem, se je razvilo iz frankovskega dvora, osredotočenega na tako imenovani grad Jourdain. Bila je le nekaj več kot utrdba, obdana z nekaj bivališči v prvi polovici 9. stoletja. Zemljevid iz leta 1771 prikazuje zgodovinsko delitev Kraainema na visoko in nizko območje: na zahodu cerkev, zgrajena na prejšnjih utrdbah, na vzhodu pa številne kmečke hiše in nekaj manjših stanovanj. Neznano je, kako so utrdbe lahko izgledale, vendar ostanke dvojnega osmerokotnega jarka lahko zasledimo zahodno od cerkve in ostajajo vidni do leta 1836. Razvoj Visokega Kraainema je ostal omejen na to jedro vse do 19. stoletja, raziskava leta 1830, ki je štela le 15 hiš.
Na severozahodu Kraainema je drugo jedro urbanizacije, Nizki Kraainem. Bila je bolj gosto poseljena kot Visoki Kraainem, a manjšega pomena, ker ni imel cerkve High Defence in obrambnih utrdb. Nizka Kraainem je svoj pomen dolgovala sotočju Maalbeeka v Woluwe. Vodni mlini so bili že zgrajeni leta 1397, da bi izkoristili moč vode za kmetijske namene, okoli teh mlinov pa je raslo stanovanjsko jedro. Okoli leta 1427 je bila zgrajena kapela sv. Antona, ki je izkoriščala trgovce, ki so prečkali območje čez Ljubljano Keulsebaan. Laag Kraainem je gospodarsko uspeval v 14. in 15. stoletju, vendar je kapela sv. Antona do leta 1850 ponovno izginila. Jožef Van Hovestraat in Jef. Thumasstraat so najstarejše preostale ulice Low Kraainema.
Stokkel je tretje jedro prebivališča Kraainema in se je razvil iz majhnega naselja v 12. stoletju kot del opatije Woluwe. Opatija je zagotovila rodovitnost tal, kar je omogočilo kmetijstvo in razvoj tamkajšnjega naselja. Območje južno od Stokkela, danes stanovanjske soseske, je ostalo gozdnato do 19. stoletja in vir dohodka od lova.
V 19. stoletju
Konec 19. stoletja je Stokkel pridobil tramvajsko povezavo z Bruselj, ki še danes obstaja kot tramvaj 92. Izboljšana dostopnost je začela hitro urbanizacijo Stokkela, medtem ko je severni Kraainem ohranil svoje podeželske značilnosti. Do konca Druga svetovna vojna, le 2 neasfaltirani cesti sta povezali Nizki in Visoki Kraainem s Stokkelom, uporabni pa so bili le nekaj mesecev na leto.
Medtem ko se je Stokkel urbaniziral, se je severni Kraainem počasi razvijal in se industrializiral v začetku 19. stoletja. Papirnice so v Kraainemu obstajale že od srednjega veka in so od belgijske neodvisnosti leta 1830 postale pomembne za oskrbo novega glavnega mesta Bruselj s časopisi. Do leta 1892 se je razvil v velik industrijski kompleks s sto obrtniki. Mlin in pivovarna sta bila tudi del kompleksa. Danes Kraainem še vedno daje sadove te zgodovine in velja za eno najbogatejših občin v Belgiji.
Od leta 1860 dalje so monumentalni gradbeni projekti v Bruslju pregnali buržoazijo iz glavnega mesta in mnogi so našli zatočišče okoli Stokkela, kar mu je dalo zagon in velik del njegovega bogastva.
Sodobni Kraainem
Izboljšave cestnega omrežja po Prva svetovna vojna je privedlo do postopnega upada industrijskega pomena Kraainema in do leta 1932 so bili vsi mlini zaprti in porušeni. Danes je ostalo zelo malo te industrijske dediščine, saj so bila industrijska območja po Druga svetovna vojna ko so bile tlakovane povezave med severnim Kraainemom in Stokkelom, nato pa je tudi severni Kraainem doživel pospešeno urbanizacijo. Prebivalstvo Kraainema se je s 1739 leta 1920 povečalo na 3330 prebivalcev leta 1947.
Od leta 1927 dalje je območje južno od Stokella postalo središče nadaljnjega stanovanjskega razvoja. Še vedno del Sonijski gozd do takrat so bile v južni polovici Kraainema zgrajene ceste, kmalu zatem pa še prve vile. Druga svetovna vojna je začasno ustavila razvoj Južnega Kraainema, vendar se je od petdesetih let krčenje gozdov pospešilo in je območje popolnoma urbaniziralo do leta 1967. V najjužnejši točki Kraainema se je ohranil le majhen del Sonijskega gozda. Občino je s kmetijskega, gozdarskega in trgovinskega področja trajno preusmeril v stanovanjski fokus. Kraainem je skoraj v celoti urbaniziran, čeprav je nekaj travnikov ostalo v severni polovici Kraainema.
V drugi polovici 20. stoletja se je Kraainem preoblikoval iz Flamsko mesto v mednarodno skupnost. Migracija Valonski državljani, ki so se naselili v Kraainemu, so mu dajali vse bolj mešano mestno prebivalstvo, ki so mu bili po ustanovitvi evropskih institucij v bližnjem Bruslju dodani še evrokrati.
Usmerjenost
Nahaja se vzhodno od Bruselj in severno od Tervuren, Ozemlje Kraainems ima obliko peščene ure, na najožji točki pa je široko le 160 m. V njej so številne avtoceste, ki se z zahodne in severne strani zarežejo v Kraainem. Severno od Kraainema je večinoma ravninsko območje v dolini reke Maalbeek, proti središču in jugu njegova topografija postane hribovita.
Okrožja
Kraainem ima 5 okrožij, od katerih ima vsaka svojo osebnost.
| Nizki Kraainem Zgodovinsko trgovsko središče, ki se nahaja v dolini Woluwe in okoli nje, kjer se Kleine Maalbeek pridruži reki Woluwe. Od industrijske dediščine ni ostalo nič, tudi tovarne papirja, mlin za žito ali pivovarna, ki je Low Kraainemu nekoč prinesla bogastvo, danes pa obstajajo številne kmetije in hiše iz 18. in 19. stoletja, ki dokazujejo njegovo bogato gospodarsko zgodovino. |
| Visoki Kraainem Zgodovinsko središče Kraainema, ustanovljeno v 9. stoletju. Zgrajena je bila okoli trdnjave in znamenite cerkve sv. Pankracija, vendar je ostala le cerkev. Je trenutno upravno središče Kraainema s svojo neoklasično mestno hišo in številnimi kulturnimi stavbami. |
| Osrednji Kraainemovo najhitreje razvijajoče se okrožje z cvetočimi poslovnimi podvigi in visokimi stanovanjskimi zgradbami. Le nekaj travnikov in kmetij spominja na kmetijsko zgodovino Kraainema, odprti prostori pa se hitro umikajo pod pritiskom nadaljnje urbanizacije. |
| Stokkel Razkošno stanovanjsko in poslovno okrožje okoli trga Dumon z dragimi stanovanji in veliko nakupovalno četrt z neštetimi butiki. |
| Južno Stanovanjsko okrožje, ki zaseda skoraj polovico ozemlja Kraainema in je odgovorno za velik del njegovih davčnih prihodkov. Meji na Sonijski gozd na jugu, a  Unescova svetovna dediščina. |
Jezik
Prisotnost Evropske institucije v Bruslju privedel do drugega vala priseljevanja v osemdesetih in devetdesetih letih 20. stoletja, mirna stanovanjska območja Kraainema in lahka dostopnost so cenili Evropska unija in NATO uradniki. Velik pritok priseljencev je nadomestil večino prvotnega flamskega prebivalstva in povzročil, da je Kraainem od leta 1960 dalje postal frankofonejši in od devetdesetih let 20. stoletja v celoti večjezičen zaradi številnih izseljencev, ki prebivajo v Kraainemu. Le majhen del prebivalstva še vedno govori flamansko, francoščina pa je dejansko lingua franca. Tudi mnogi prebivalci, zlasti mlajša generacija, dobro razumejo angleščino.
Jezik je v Kraainemu še vedno občutljiva tema razprav, zlasti starejša generacija ne sprejema večkulturnosti in za višje cene stanovanj in naraščajoči kriminal krivi francoske in evropske priseljence. Prebivalci se navadno izogibajo javni razpravi o tej temi, zato je priporočljivo, da v razpravi ne zavzamete stališča, saj lahko to privede do zapleta.
Podnebje
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Bližina Severnega morja daje Kraainemu blago morsko podnebje. Temperature so večino leta med 4 ° C in 20 ° C.
Pozimi so pogosta obdobja nekaj zaporednih hladnejših dni, ko vetrovi odhajajo Skandinavija padec temperature pod ničlo. Sneženje je redko in omejeno na največ nekaj cm na dan, zato ob zimskem obisku Kraainema ni treba imeti s seboj snežnih čevljev. Občinske službe za glavne ceste hitro uredijo, sekundarne ceste pa lahko ostanejo spolzke do poznih popoldanskih ur. Čeprav formalno ni prepovedano, drsanja na ribnikih v parku Jourdain ne bi smeli poskušati, ker je led redko dovolj debel, da vzdrži težo odraslih.
Poleti se temperature občasno dvignejo nad 20 ° C z vrhovi do 35 ° C. Ko se temperatura dvigne nad 30 ° C, se domačini poiščejo zavetje pred vročino, družabno življenje pa se nekoliko upočasni (počasnejše storitve v restavracijah ali barih, premalo zaposlenih v javnih službah itd.) Nekaj zaporednih vročih dni se običajno konča z grmenjem nevihta in veliko dežja. V vročih dneh je lahko varni prag za ozon presežen, takrat je priporočljivo zmanjšati fizični napor. Zaščita pred soncem Factor 50 je priporočljiva poleti in jo lahko kupite v katerem koli supermarketu, kot so Carrefour Planet, Delhaize ali Colruyt. Med vročinskimi valovi in sušnimi časi bodo morda začasno veljale omejitve uporabe vode, ki bodo prebivalce odvračale od zapravljanja vode iz pipe. Na primer, v času suše je lahko prepovedano polnjenje bazenov, pranje vozil ali vodne vrtove. Vendar se od turistov formalno ne pričakuje, da poznajo te izredne predpise začasne narave, zato policija verjetno ne bo kaznovana z denarno kaznijo, če jih ujamejo.
Podnebje v Kraainemu je vse leto vlažno in dež lahko pričakujemo kadar koli, ne glede na letni čas. Obiskovalci naj vzamejo s seboj dežnik, nepremočljivo jakno ali vsaj rezervna oblačila v nahrbtniku. Vreme se lahko hitro spremeni, jutro brez oblačka se lahko popoldne spremeni v dež in obratno, zato bodite pripravljeni na obisk tako toplih kot deževnih dni. Ker je bolj notranjost kot soseda na vzhodu, Bruselj, Kraainem je poleti običajno nekoliko bolj vroč in pozimi hladnejši kot Bruselj.
Turistična pisarna
- 1 Turistična pisarna, Arthur Dezangrélaan 17, ✉[email protected]. Turistična pisarna v Mestni hiši Kraainem. Ponuja brezplačne zemljevide za hojo in kolesarjenje ter vozovnice za sistem javnega prevoza. prost.
Vstopi
Z metrojem
Do Kraainema je najlažje priti s podzemno železnico, izstopiti na postaji 1 Kraainem 
(druga zadnja postaja na liniji 1 Zahodna postaja-Stokkel). Čas potovanja je približno 20 minut 2 Glavna postaja v Bruslju.
S tramvajem
Tramvaj 92 upravljajo Bruselj prevozniško podjetje MIVB prečka osrednji Kraainem od zahoda proti vzhodu, izstopite na 3 postaja Wilderozen.
Z letalom
Kraainem ima tudi letališče (BRU IATA) s Bruselj, ki se nahaja na severu. Taksi od 4 Bruseljsko nacionalno letališče do Kraainema bo stala približno 22 €.
Z avtobusom
Kraainem prečkajo številne avtobusne in tramvajske proge. Bodite pozorni na logotip na vozilih, saj v Kraainemu vozijo 3 podjetja in njihove vozovnice niso združljive. Zato si zagotovite vozovnico za podjetje, s katerim potujete. V dvomih vprašajte voznika avtobusa za navodila.
Bruseljsko prevozniško podjetje MIVB upravlja 2 liniji, 76 (smer Oppem) in 77 (smer Hipodroom), ki se prav tako ustavijo na podzemna postaja.
Z avtom
Bližina avtocest (E40 in R0) omogoča enostaven dostop z avtomobilom, če se odločite za najem, toda v času prometnih konic (07: 00–09: 30 in 16: 00–18: 00) ogromni zastoji vsak dan ohromijo večino avtocest, ki obkrožajo Bruselj, pa tudi medmestne povezave med Brusljem in Leuven.
Obiti
Sodobni Kraainem ima močno stanovanjsko perspektivo z dobro razvitim cestnim omrežjem. Popolnoma je začrtan OpenStreetMap, ki je verjetno bolj posodobljen kot uradni zemljevidi, ki jih ponuja turistična pisarna. Kraainem ima odlično pokritost 3G (glej tudi Povežite se), vendar je za preprečitev prekomerne pasovne širine in stroškov, povezanih s pretakanjem podatkov zemljevidov, priporočljivo, da zemljevid Kraainem predhodno prenesete in si ga ogledate brez povezave v mobilni napravi.
Peš
Od celotne površine 5,8 km² sta samo severna polovica in središče turistične vrednosti, jug pa stanovanjska območja brez pomembnih zanimivosti. Z dobrim prenosnim zemljevidom je mogoče v enem dnevu peš prečkati Kraainem. Za večino obiskovalcev bo najprimerneje narediti zanko z začetno in končno točko na Podzemna postaja Kraainem. Od postaje podzemne železnice hodite proti vzhodu do Grensstraata, nato pa do konca do Kapellelaana. Na poti po Kapellelaanu boste naleteli na salezijanski samostan in naprej po cesti, 't Kapelleke. Nadaljujte navzdol po Jozefu van Hovestraatu s številnimi zgodovinskimi kmetijami in kmečkimi hišami do križišča z Jefom. Thumasstraat v Low Kraainemu, kjer zavijete desno. Sledite Jefu. Thumasstraat do Old lease house na vogalu, nato zavijte desno in sledite Oudstrijderslaan s parkom Eclair na vaši desni, dokler ne prispete v High Kraainem. Pri mestni hiši Kraainem zavijte levo proti cerkvi Saint Pancras in nato desno v zgodovinsko naselje High Kraainem. Peljite skozi vrata, zavijte levo na Steenweg op Zaventem in se sprehodite po ribnikih parka Jourdain, mimo Stare vikarije in gradu Jourdain. Nadaljujte pot proti Vredesplaats / Konining Astridlaan, kjer boste prečkali mirovni spomenik. Sledite Koningin Astridlaan, mimo spomenika industrijske dediščine, do križišča z Groenstraatom. V naslednjem križišču zavijte desno v Jules Adantstraat mimo Bouvier-Washer Cité, nato pa na križišču z Wezembeeklaanom zavijte desno in nadaljujte pot do podzemne postaje Kraainem. Celotna tura traja od 2 do 5 ur, odvisno od časa, ki ga preživite na različnih znamenitostih.
Z javnim prevozom
Kraainem prečkajo avtobusne linije (316 in 352 od Ljubljane) De Lijn), tramvajska proga 92 skozi Stokkel in podzemno železnico 1 povezuje Stokkel in Kraainem z Bruselj. The 1 Podzemna železnica Kraainem postaja je lokalno prometno vozlišče in avtobusni terminal, ki služi kot tranzitna postaja med metrojem in avtobusnimi linijami iz Ljubljane Flamsko prevozniško podjetje De Lijn, bruseljsko prevozniško podjetje MIVB in Valonski prevozniško podjetje TEC. Vsako podjetje ima svoje vozovnice, ki jih druga podjetja ne sprejmejo. Vozovnice za vsak avtobus lahko kupite neposredno od voznika, vendar so le nekoliko dražje od predhodnega nakupa. Potniki so odgovorni za plačilo voznine, vozniki morda ne bodo preverili veljavnosti vozovnice, če pa vas ujamejo brez vozovnice (zwartrijden v nizozemščini) lahko pričakujete visoke globe do 150 €. Poleg lokalnega prevoza iz podzemne železnice Kraainem odhajajo tudi številni avtobusi na dolge razdalje, ki pa zahtevajo predhodno rezervacijo in vozovnice.
Najlažji način načrtovanja potovanja z javnim prevozom je uporaba spletnih načrtovalcev poti. Najboljši načrtovalec je tisti iz nacionalnega železniškega podjetja NMBS. Če ste seznanjeni s tem Google zemljevidi, tranzit Funkcija se lahko uporablja tudi za načrtovanje potovanja.
S kolesom
Kraainem ima gričevnato topografijo, najnižja točka v dolini Maalbeek je nekoliko pod 40 m nadmorske višine, najvišja točka pa je 120 m. Na srečo so nakloni redko strmi, kar omogoča udoben prevoz s kolesom. Za razliko od Bruslja niso potrebne kolesarske izkušnje v prometnem prometu; nekaj poti in križišč z gostim prometom ima namenske kolesarske steze. Mnogi lokalni prebivalci imajo v lasti svoje kolo in to je eden najpogostejših načinov prevoza. The 2 Sistem izposoje koles Villo je na voljo tudi v Kraainemu, z najemno postajo blizu postaje podzemne železnice Kraainem. Kolesa so precej težka, vendar kakovostna in jih lahko najamete že od 1,60 EUR na dan s plačilom 0,50 EUR na pol ure po prvi uri. Za najem koles je potrebna debetna ali kreditna kartica, saj avtomat za prodajo kart ne sprejema gotovine.
Glej
Bogata zgodovina Kraainema, ki sega že v 9. stoletje, pušča številne znamenitosti, razširjene po sodobnem Kraainemu. Številne verske in kmetijske zgodovinske stavbe ostajajo in jih je mogoče obiskati. Upoštevajte, da je večina zgodovinskih rezidenc in kmetij v zasebni lasti, prebivalci pa jih lahko pozorno pogledajo. Vendar pa bo večina lastnikov na zahtevo turistov z veseljem organizirala ogled in podrobno razpravljala o zgodovini. Z izjemo salezijanskega samostana je vse spodnje znamenitosti enostavno doseči z javnim prevozom.
Kultura in arhitektura
- 1 Cerkev sv. Pankracija (Sint-Pancratiuskerk), Arthur Dezangrélaan 20/2, ☏ 32 2 720 02 61, ✉[email protected]. Sa 17: 00–19: 00, Ned 10: 00–12: 00. Najstarejša zgradba v Kraainemu, cerkev sv. Pankracija, izvira iz 12. stoletja. Masivni rimski stolp s stenami, debelimi do 1,7 metra, je imel najverjetneje vojaško funkcijo. Sprva je bila cerkev dodana stolpu in je imela preprosto pravokotno obliko. V 13. in 14. stoletju so cerkvi prizidali severno krilo. S finančno pomočjo opatije Affligem se je majhen zbor v 16. stoletju preoblikoval v gotski zbor, ki ostaja še danes. Do 18. stoletja so bila vhod v cerkev majhna vrata v južni steni, tisti strani, ki je zdaj obrnjena proti mestni hiši Kraainem. Okoli leta 1720 so vhod premaknili na sedanja baročna vrata v stolpu. Od leta 1170 dalje je bila cerkev bistveno spremenjena: opuščena je bila asimetrična postavitev, pod isto sedlasto streho pa je bil dodan še tretji del. Dodani so bili tudi sedanja zakristija, prižnica in dve spovednici. Notranjost je bila izboljšana s pohištvom, ki prvotno ni bilo namenjeno cerkvi: izvor orgel je še vedno skrivnost, leta 1873 pa so od bruseljske cerkve kupili dva oltarja po 100 frankov. Konec 19. stoletja se je cerkev izognila popolni preobrazbi v novoromunskem slogu, namesto nje pa je bil izbran bolj skromen dizajn Julesa Van Ysendycka, ki je ohranil večino starinske notranjosti. Leta 1984 je župnik Vanzulpele opazil vdolbino v oboku nad zborom, ki je začela zaporedje restavracij, dokončno zaključenih leta 2012. Sedanja notranjost temelji na notranjosti po prenovi leta 1770. Pokopališče okoli cerkve ni več v uporabi in služi le ohranjanju zgodovinske podobe stavbe. Verske slovesnosti še vedno potekajo v soboto in nedeljo, ko je cerkev mogoče obiskati. prost.
- 2 Visoki Kraainem (Hoog-Kraainem), Steenweg op Zaventem 54. Dobro ohranjeni ostanki prvih stanovanjskih dejavnosti v Visokem Kraainemu iz frankovske naselbine v 9. stoletju. Kompleks medsebojno povezanih hiš in kmetij, postavljen iz lokalnega peščenjaka, vendar poslikan z belimi zidovi, se nahaja med cerkvijo svetega Pancras in gradom Jourdain. Obstajajo dokazi o trdnjavi, ki je bila zgodovinsko umeščena zahodno od sedanje lokacije cerkve, vendar je bila porušena do konca 14. stoletja, ker je izgubila strateški pomen. Zemljevid iz leta 1397 poroča le o lokaciji jarkov (fossa castri), ki so bile sčasoma zasute in prenovljene. Danes ni več vidnih dokazov o obstoju trdnjave. Od 14. do 19. stoletja je Visoki Kraainem ostal majhno naselje: v času belgijske osamosvojitve leta 1830 je bilo v High Kraainemu naštetih le 15 hiš. prost.
- 3 Stara vikarija (Oude Pastorie), Pastoorkesweg 1, ☏ 32 2 720 63 46. Vikarija, zgrajena leta 1652 z temelji iz peščenjaka in rdeče opeke. Značilna obločna vrata in skrilavca, značilna za dobo, v kateri so bila zgrajena, so preživela prizadevanja za obnovo. Kot vikarijat je ostal do leta 1906, ko so ob sedanji mestni hiši na aveniji Arthur Dezangré zgradili novo vikarstvo. Stavba je bila kot arhitekturna dediščina prepoznana leta 1976 in obnovljena leta 1990. Ena od zanimivosti župnijske hiše je majhno mehansko dvigalo za eno osebo, skrito v stolpu pod sedlasto streho, vendar že leta ne deluje. V stavbi je restavracija Maxime Collin.
- 4 Grad Jourdain (Jourdainkasteel), Kasteelweg 4-6. Grad je bil zgrajen kot kmetija v obliki črke U, obkrožena z več zelenjavnimi vrtovi, kot je bilo dokumentirano leta 1771. Leta 1846 je bila kmetija razširjena, obdana z opečnim zidom in spremenjena v zaprto kmetijo (vierkantshoeve). Dodan je bil tudi hlev, a porušen konec 20. stoletja. Leta 1883 jo je skupaj z okoliškim parkom kupil zdravnik Delphin Gaillard. Kmetiji iz 18. stoletja je dal današnji videz gradu, s poudarkom na tradicionalnih slogovnih elementih: opečnati zidovi, vogali iz belega peščenjaka, stopničasti dvokapniki, majhni stolpi in streha, podobna kitajski pagodi. Grad in park sta bila nato prodana Victorju Jourdainu, ki je grad poimenoval, leta 1980 pa je bila lastnina prenesena na občino Kraainem, ki je stavbo obnovila in jo uporabila kot skupnostno središče. Zadnja obnova je iz leta 2003, ko je bilo dodano dvigalo. Grad je občasno odprt za kulturne prireditve in je uvrščen med flamsko arhitekturno dediščino. Do konca devetdesetih let je gostil cvetličarno, ki je zasedla veliko verando. Zaradi rekreacijskih površin z otroško kmetijo je grad priljubljena atrakcija za lokalne družine z otroki.
- 5 Salezijanski samostan (Klooster van de Visitatie), Hebronlaan 5. Salezijanski red sta leta 1610 v bližini Annecyja v Franciji ustanovila Jeanne de Chantal in Frančišek Saleški, ki sta redu dala svoje ime. 12. februarja 1667 je bil v Bruslju ustanovljen samostan - takrat del Južne Nizozemske -, vendar je bil uspeh reda časovno zelo spremenljiv in je bil v prvi polovici 19. stoletja v Bruslju skoraj izumrl. Drugi začetek 21. novembra 1845 je imel več uspeha in niti stoletje kasneje je bila prvotna lokacija premajhna, da bi lahko bilo naročilo. Arhitekt Paul Bellot, rojen leta 1876, specializiran za versko arhitekturo, je bil zadolžen za zasnovo novega samostana zunaj Bruslja. Potem je bil zaradi oddaljene lege izbran še vedno podeželski Kraainem, takrat na hribu še ni bilo drugih zgradb, najbližje naselje pa je bilo Low Kraainem, ki je bilo dostopno le po ozki neasfaltirani cesti (danes Kapellelaan). Gradnja se je začela leta 1928, konec leta 1930, ko je bila končana, pa je samostan postal priljubljena romarska destinacija. Za razliko od podobnih samostanov v Belgiji, ki so se začeli majhno in so se postopoma širili, je razpoložljivost zadostnega prostora in proračuna omogočila, da je bilo celotno območje mogoče zgraditi naenkrat med letoma 1928 in 1930. za modele Paula Bellota: polikromirane opeke iz Zandvoordeja (občina blizu Oostendeja v bližini belgijske obale) in široka uporaba betona za strukturne in dekorativne namene. Vplive modernizma art deco in opeke je mogoče opaziti v vseh vidikih gradbeništva. Okrašene so le stranice stavb, ki gledajo na ulice (Kapellelaan in Hebronlaan) (na primer skulptura Madonne nad vhodom), stranice, ki gledajo na notranje svetišče, vrtove in sadovnjake, nimajo nobene okrasnosti. Arhitektura in stopnja dekoracije razkrivata prvotno predvideni namen prostorov v stavbah, značilnost, imenovano arhitektura parlante. Tudi fasade so hierarhično okrašene, pri čemer je kapelica najpomembnejši in s tem najobsežneje okrašen del zgradbe. Notranjost spominja na srednjeveški samostan s slogovnimi elementi arabske in mozarabske umetnosti. Paul Bellot je za osvetlitev menil, da je najpomembnejša, okna pa so posledično dovolj velika, da lahko osvetlijo prostore, ki so jim namenjeni, brez kaznovanja dekoracije. Veliko prvotnega obdelovanja lesa, tako notranjega kot zunanjega, je ohranjeno, kar dokazujejo hrastova notranja vrata in stopnišča. Samostan je v uporabi še danes in ostaja edini salezijanski samostan v Belgiji. Običajno ni odprt za obiskovalce, rezervacije so obvezne. Do samostana lahko pridete iz Low Kraainema, tako da sledite Jozefu van Hovestraatu in nato Kappellelaanu po hribu.
- 6 't Kapelleke, Anecilan 1. Kapela, imenovana 't kapelleke s strani lokalnih prebivalcev (dobesedno, kapela) se nahaja na presečišču Jozef van Hovestraat, Lijsterbessenbomenlaan, Bossstraat in Kapellelaan. V času gradnje leta 1932 okoli sedanjega mesta ni bilo nobenih stavb, razen Jozefa van Hovestraata pa so bile vse ulice makadamske ceste. Do leta 1932 pa je prehod postajal vse pomembnejši zaradi širitve stanovanjskega naselja Laag Kraainem in gradnje salezijanskega samostana vzdolž Kapellelaana 1 km naprej med leti 1928 in 1930. Ker je bilo v poznejših letih dodanih več ulic, je bilo krožno križišče zgrajena za preusmeritev prometa stran od neposredne okolice kapele in ohranitev prvotnih cest. Kapela je ena najslavnejših znamenitosti Kraainema, lokalni otroci pa jo poznajo zaradi sosednjih vrtcev in osnovne šole. Kapela je v celoti obdana z zgradbami in je zato izgubila večino svojih pristnih pogledov. Do njega lahko zlahka pridete z ulice Jozef van Hovestraat na hribu, približno 5 minut hoje. prost.
- 7 Judovsko pokopališče (Joods kerkhof), Kerkhoflaan. Pred letom 1930 je območje sedanjega pokopališča obstajalo kot vrt za grajski park Edwarda De Burbureja iz Wezembeeka. S hitro širitvijo Kraainema v prvi polovici 20. stoletja pokopališče okoli cerkve Saint Pancras ni imelo potrebnih zmogljivosti in potreba po večjem pokopališču se je pokazala. Območje je leta 1933 kupila občina Kraainem, naslednje leto pa je bilo z gradnjo dveh servisnih stavb spremenjeno v pokopališče. Na južnem vhodu pokopališča je majhno območje posvečeno vojnim žrtvam in veteranom. Večji del je rezerviran za judovsko skupnost, saj je bila zgrajena leta 1946 in kasneje razširjena leta 1959. Številni grobovi so žrtve koncentracijskega taborišča Breendonk. Spominski spomenik neznanim nacističnim žrtvam gleda na območje. Pokopališče je oddaljeno 15 min hoje od kraja High Kraainem. prost.
- 8 Trg miru (Vredesmonument), Vredesplein. Spominsko območje lokalnih žrtev obeh svetovnih vojn. Trg in njegov spomenik je bil zgrajen leta 1930, ko je bila sosednja avenija kraljice Astrid zasnovana kot povezava med Visokim Kraainemom in Stokkelom. Pred letom 1930 na trenutni lokaciji ni bilo zgradb ali cest. Spomenik je podpisal Victor Demanet, ki je vodil njegovo gradnjo. Kasneje so bili skupaj z besedilom dodani napisi v spomin na drugo svetovno vojno gij hebt den dank verdiend van 't vaderland (zaslužili ste hvaležnost domovine). Spomenik je slovesno odprl kralj Albert I. prost.
Industrijska dediščina
- 9 Nizki Kraainem (Laag-Kraainem), Jožef van Hovestraat, Molenstraat, Jef. Thumasstraat. Nizki Kraainem je v dolini reke Woluwe, stranske reke od Senne, in je našel svoj izvor na mestu, kjer se Kleine Maalbeek (sestavljena iz Wezembeek in Sterrebeek) zlije v Woluwe. Za zgodovinske poti Woluwe in Kleine Maalbeek so bili značilni številni ribniki in močvirja, ki pa so v 19. in 20. stoletju postopoma izginili. Stanovanjsko središče Low Kraainema so v glavnem sestavljali Jozef Van Hovestraat (prej Kerreweg, Steenstraete in Crainhemstraete, a leta 1914 preimenovan po Jozefu Van Hoveu, ki je bil glavni v Kraainemu), Molenstraat in Jef. Thumasstraat. Z gradnjo viadukta E40 in avenije Woluwe je bil velik del zgodovinskega središča uničen, Jozef Van Hovestraat pa je bil prerezan na dve polovici. Ohranjenih pa je veliko zgodovinskih stavb: tradicionalna kmetija iz 18. stoletja na naslovu št. 90-92 in kmečka hiša iz leta 1739 pri št. 86. Oboje je dokaz zgodnjega stanovanjskega razvoja na tem območju, ki ga spodbuja tramvajska proga, ki je takrat obstajala (Statieplaats pomeni postajni trg v nizozemščini). Drugo zgodovinsko arhitekturo najdete na št. 1, 5, 7B, 20, 15-21, 37, 78-82 in 115. prost.
- 10 Hiša Old Najem (Oud Pachthof), Jef. Thumasstraat 16. Nahaja se vzdolž trase tramvajske proge, ki je nekoč povezovala Nizki Kraainem z Visokim Kraainemom in Sterrebeekom, domnevno naj bi hiša Lease služila kot osrednji registrator kmetijskih posesti v Low Kraainemu in High Kraainemu. Funkcija izvira izpred 19. stoletja, ko so bila skoraj vsa kmetijska zemljišča v lasti velikih lastnikov zemljišč, kmetje pa so lahko zemljo oddajali le v zameno za del pridelkov, ki so jih dali. Stavba je iz konca 17. stoletja, vendar je bila večkrat obnovljena. Predvidoma so seje Kraainemovega sveta odvijale na tej lokaciji, dokler ni bila zgrajena sedanja mestna hiša v letih 1867-1868. V stavbi je lounge bar.
- 11 Spomenik industrijske dediščine (Evenwicht), Koningin Astridlaan 183. 24/7. Spomenik je sestavljen iz treh velikanskih drobcev, enega lesenega in dveh aluminijastih, v spomin na bogato industrijsko zapuščino Kraainema v 19. in 20. stoletju. Zlasti tovarne papirja so bile zgodovinsko pomembne za zaposlovanje v Low Kraainemu, ki je bil idealno lociran zaradi oskrbe z vodo iz Woluwe in Kleine Maalbeek ter oskrbe z lesom iz bližnjega Sonijskega gozda. Od obsežnih industrijskih kompleksov s papirnicami, žitaricami in pivovarno danes ne ostane nič. Spomenik je zasnoval Rainer Gross, slovesno pa je bil odprt leta 2000. Lahko dosegljiv iz visokega in nizkega kraainema s 15-20-minutnim sprehodom po hribu proti Stokkelu. Lahko pa se peljete z avtobusom 352 in izstopite na Koningin Astrid. prost.
- 12 Bouvier-Washer Cité (Bouvier-Washerwijk), Bouvier-Washerstraat 13. 24/7. The Cité, built between 1920 and 1923, was envisioned as a social residential complex for veterans from the Prva svetovna vojna who returned from the front line with disabilities. The chlorine gas used as chemical weapon in the early stages of the war in particular turned out to be rarely deadly because it was dispersed in the air, but caused irreversible damage to the lungs of many unprepared soldiers. For the first time in history, large numbers of veterans thus returned home with permanent breathing problems, a disability preventing reintegration in the labour market. At the end of the First World War in 1918, Belgian social security was unprepared to cope with this new phenomenon, and the Association sans but lucratif au profit des mutiléls de guerre (Association for the benevolence of war mutilated individuals) was founded to construct cheap social housing for the victims. Many such social cités were constructed in Kraainem, the Bouvier-Washer Cité was among the first. The architecture is typically regional: red brick facades alternating with brightly painted surfaces, abutments to the corners of walls, anchors and plaits, etc. The neighbouring Korenbloemstraat served the same purpose but was added 10 years later between 1930 and 1932. Many buildings have been modified, but the authentic looks were preserved in Korenbloemstraat no. 28. The Cité is still used as a residential area today, as houses were sold or passed on to heirs after the original veteran inhabitants died. A 20- to 25-min walk from High Kraainem, follow Koningin Astridlaan direction Stokkel until the crossing with the Wezembeeklaan, then take left. Alternatively, take bus 352 direction Kraainem Metro and get off at stop Koningin Astrid. prost.
Parki in narava
- 13 Jourdain Park (Jourdainpark). 24/7. The area east of the High Kraainem residential complex, at the time along the curvy road that connected Kraainem with Wezembeek, was purchased in 1883 by doctor Delphin Gaillard. The park only came to existence in 1899 when successive owner Victor Jourdain, who gave his name to the park, added 8.5 ha of marsh and woodland to the area before the start of the First World War in 1914. After his death in 1918, his heirs added the large ponds along the Kleine Maalbeek to the park, an addition of 4 ha. This included a watermill, which used the largest of the two ponds as a reservoir. The park consisted of the current ponds, but also a vegetable garden and orchard. A large portion of the park was sacrificed for the construction of highway R0 in 1973. From then on, the park was governed by the Kraainem municipality. As of today, the park hosts a large variety of rare and exotic plants and trees, including Platanus x hispanica, Tilia platyphyllos, T. tomentosa, Aesculus hippocastanum, in Sequoiadendron giganteum. prost.
- 14 Eclair Park (Eclairpark), Oudstrijderslaan 87. 24/7. A small park in Low Kraainem, the counterpart of the Jourdain park in High Kraainem. Willow trees are the symbol of Kraainem, and the willow tree of the Eclair park is one of the last remaining, after the iconic willow tree in front of the Saint Pancras Church was chopped during the renovation of the church in 2011. The pond is fed by a small spring, which used to be a source of fresh water for the inhabitants of Low Kraainem, but due to ground water contamination, the spring water is no longer suitable for human consumption. The pond drains into the Kleine Maalbeek, which in turns merges into the Woluwe 200 m further. The pond is a rich biome, as evidenced by the countless water plants in and around it. The pond also functions as flood water storage. A small recreation area makes the park a popular destination for families with young kids in Low Kraainem. prost.
- 15 Old Tram Track (Oud tramspoortje). 24/7 (but lighting off after 23:00). Trajectory of a historic tram track connecting the royal palace in Laken with the king's summer residence in Tervuren (now it's the Africa museum). Only a fraction of the historic track is in use, the remainder converted into a long stretched park reaching from Kraainem to Oudergem. Used by students of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel as bicycle highway to reach the Etterbeek campus. Beautiful trajectory, crossing the border between Flanders and Brussels. Approximate length is 8 km. To return by metro, take line 5 in Oudergem towards Erasmus/Erasme and change for line 1 towards Stokkel/Stockel at Merode. Not recommendable in rainy weather. prost.
- 16 Sonian Forest (Zoniënwoud). 24/7. The Sonian Forest, covering an area of ca. 4400 ha, is the largest and best preserved remnant of the historical Silva Carbonaria, commonly known as the charcoal forest, that in the 4th century still stretched from Thuin do Bruselj. It has a large geomorphological value because significant sections on the Loess plateau had never been felled in history, thus retaining the characteristics of a primeval forest. The highest point reaches 133 m above sea level. The source of the IJse is in the centre of the Sonian Forest, and its trajectory spawned countless ponds, creeks and marshes. Archaeological evidence of human activity in the Sonian Forest has been traced back to neolithic remains over 5000 years old. Remains of iron ore smelters from the Carolingian era have also been found. It is presumably under the reign of Charles the Great (768-814) that the Sonian Forest got split off from the Silva Carbonaria and developed an independent fauna and flora. Spodaj Avstrijski reign in the 18th century, thousands of beech trees were planted, which is still visible today. From the 18th century onwards, the forest saw increasing economic importance: several monasteries and priories were built in and around it, and the countless ponds served to provide them with a supply of fish whereas the forest itself had a hunting ground function. Nearly nothing of these buildings remains today, but the intense network of droveways reveals their historic locations and importance. Spodaj Francosko rule, from 1794 to 1814, the Sonian Forest was nationalised, and large areas were felled for economic reasons. After the Belgian independence of 1830, parts of the forest were sold off to individuals to fill the new country's treasury, but in 1843 it became property of the state. The first half of the 19th century brought new disaster to the forest, however, when in 1832 the General Society (Société Generale) started the construction of roads that cut the forest in smaller pieces. A railway connection between Brussels and Terhulpen was constructed in 1854, further dividing the forest. Po Druga svetovna vojna, the roads were significantly widened and paved, then later upgraded to the highways that still exist today, and are part of the Brussels Ringway R0. The lack of tunnels or bridges make them a significant barrier for the fauna in the forest: foxes, boars, frogs, toads, deers, and budgerigars. Although only a tiny fraction of the Sonian forest is in Kraainem, the forest has become very popular with locals for recreation purposes. The Sonian Forest is a
Unescova svetovna dediščina. The forest offers excellent opportunities for hiking, Nordic walking, jogging and cycling. Fishing or camping are not allowed, however. The forest can be reached from the Kraainem centre with bus 316 direction Leuven (get off at Middenlaan) or explored by Villo bike (see Obiti). prost. 
- 17 Central Park, Koningin Astridlaan 274 (Take bus 352 or 316, get off at stop Koningin Astrid). 24/7. A small park near the geographic centre of Kraainem, hence its name. Adjacent to the famous Bouvier-Washer Cité, it offers visitors benches to rest and a calm environment to enjoy the surroundings. The park is maintained as a natural habitat for local fauna, by keeping grass mowing to a strict minimum. In the early morning or late evening, encounters with wildlife are likely, and visitors can enjoy observing rabbits, weasels and even foxes in the wild. It is formally prohibited to feed wildlife, and visitors should refrain from taking out food around animals, foxes in particular. prost.
Ali
As a town with rich cultural patrimony, exploring Kraainem's history and architecture -- by foot or bike -- will be the likely focus for visitors making a day trip to Kraainem. If the unpredictable Belgian weather allows it, enjoying the parks and Sonian Forest are particularly popular among locals. Other cultural and sportive activities are
- 1 Cultural Center De Lijsterbes (Cultureel Centrum), Lijsterbessenbomenlaan 6, ☏ 32 2 721 28 06, ✉[email protected]. M 17.30–20.00, Tu–F 09.00–17.00. A modern theater hall, grown into the cultural centre of Kraainem. New shows on a weekly basis. An opportunity for tourists to get a taste of Flemish culture and lifestyle. Don't forget to have a drink at the bar afterwards, where local residents hang out for smalltalk.
- 2 F.C. Kraainem (Kraainem Football), Bosstraat 85, ☏ 32 479 35 16 45. The football club of Kraainem is known for its multiculturalism, uniting over 300 players from 40 countries in sports. Aside from 2 senior teams, the club is carried by youngsters between 6 and 21 years old. Football courses are available to children in that age range in Dutch, English and French. Matches are played in the stadium at the Bosstraat, which has a rich history on its own. Entering the stadium is free, even during matches, only seats must be paid for. The cantina serves drinks and snacks, and hosts occasional cultural events. prost.
- 3 Sports Center Kraainem (Sporthal), Patronaatstraat 10, ☏ 32 475 58 20 38, ✉[email protected]. The sports centre of Kraainem is located between the historic centre of High Kraainem and the E40 highway in the valley of the Kleine Maalbeek. The centre is a multifunctional complex for tennis, acrobatics, badminton, volleyball, table tennis, futsal, judo and mini football. Facilities are available for indoor and outdoor tennis, on a 5 minute walking distance from High Kraainem centre. In winter, ice skating on the natural ice of the nearby pond is a popular attraction for locals.
- 4 Knjižnica (Openbare bibliotheek), Patronaatstraat 17, ☏ 32 2 720 16 02, ✉[email protected]. W 14:00–17:00, Su 10:00–13:00. Public library, offering a collection of novels, comic books, CDs and DVDs, primarily in Dutch and English.
- 5 Opazovanje letal. 24/7. Watching landing aircraft is a popular hobby in Kraainem due to its location in the vicinity of the Brussels International Airport. Areas east of Kraainem find themselves under a runway flight route, enabling viewers to spot landing aircraft if wind direction and weather permits it. prost.
- 1 Karneval (Carnavalstoet): 2022, Oudergemselaan 3, 1933 Sterrebeek, ☏ 32 2 767 01 93, ✉[email protected]. Carnival has been a yearly tradition in Kraainem since 1975. It takes place the first Saturday after Ash Wednesday, a Catholic holiday. The day it occurs changes accordingly. The parade, which starts in the Baron d'Huartlaan and ends on the Koningin Astridlaan in High Kraainem, is a mix of different carnival groups, shows and carnival prince delegations. The parade is very popular among kids, as candy is frequently thrown into the audience from the numerous parade trucks. It can be observed anywhere along its trajectory. The day of the parade, traffic will be hindered along the trajectory, which may make it more difficult to explore Kraainem by car or bike. Because of the Pandemija covida-19, no parade will be organised in 2021. prost. (datum je treba popraviti)
Nakup
Valuta
To obtain cash, there are 3 methods:
- Exchange another currency against euros at the Zaventem airport upon arrival;
- Withdraw cash from an ATM (beware, additional fees may apply);
- Request additional cash from the cashier at Carrefour when paying electronically.
ATMs can typically be found at banks, and are available to tourists without any surcharge. However, exchanging another currency for euros will often either require an account at that bank, or the exchange rate will be particularly unfavourable for you.
- 2 Crelan (Van Biesen), Koningin Astridlaan 233, ☏ 32 2 731 97 40. W–F 09:00–12:30, Sa 09:00–12:00, Tu F 16:00–18:30. Bank office with ATM, helpful and friendly service.
- 3 BNP Paribas Fortis, Oudstrijderslaan 11, ☏ 32 2 711 03 50. M–F 09:00–12:30. Office of a large French bank, more likely to accept and exchange foreign currencies.
At the intersection of the Koningin Astridlaan and Wezembeeklaan another bank office can be found, Belfius, but this bank has a poor reputation and has been involved in numerous corruption scandals. Make use of their services at your own risk. It is advisable to walk 200 m further down the Koningin Astridlaan to the Crelan office instead.
Businesses do not expect gratuity, although it is customary to round the amount in restaurants to the nearest bill (€5) if the service and food was good.
Nakupovanje
The historic town centre of Kraainem is too small to provide satisfactory shopping experience, and commerce primarily consists of restaurants, bars and cafés. The best place for shoppers in Kraainem is the Kraainem Carrefour Planet shopping centre. Alternatively, shoppers may cross into Sint-Pieters-Woluwe for a shopping experience in Stokkel, or the much larger Woluwe Shopping Centre.
- 1 Historic shopping district. Numerous shops spread along the streets of the historic centre of Kraainem. Large variety of premises, but does not offer the best opportunities to fashionistas.
- 2 Kraainem Shopping, Wezembeeklaan 114. M–Sa 09:00–20:00. Largest shopping centre in Kraainem, with nearly all commodities available. Notable shops include a Leonidas (Belgian chocolates), Carrefour Planet (hypermarket), Delhaize (groceries) and Brico (leisure and construction related items). Too far out of the town centre to walk, but easily reachable with bus 316 or 352 (get off at Konigin Astrid).
- 3 Zwaluwenhof, Molenstraat 33. Tu 10:00–12:00, 15:00–17:30; Sa 10:00–17:30. Historic farmstead, selling a variety of local organic food. Located in the Molenstraat, the historic connection between Low and High Kraainem before the Arthur Dezangrélaan relieved traffic from this narrow street. A 5-minute walk away from the historic Jozef Van Hovestraat in Low Kraainem.
Food, drinks and convenience items
Kraainem has a few supermarkets, all with their own specialties: general groceries, organic foods, souvenirs & gifts, and so on. Those open on Fridays stay open an hour longer than the other days of the week, to give locals the opportunity to go shopping after work.
- 4 Carrefour, Wezembeeklaan 114, ☏ 32 2 785 06 11. M–Th, Sa 09:00–20:00; F 09:00–21:00. Francosko hypermarkt chain, and largest store in Kraainem with a variety of food and drinks, including prepared meals to go. They also carry other items that may come in handy: prepaid SIM cards, post cards and stamps, and in the summer season a range of camping items such as tents and backpacks.
- 5 Colruyt, Ferdinand Kinnenstraat 9, ☏ 32 2 731 21 35. M–Th, Sa 08:30–20:00, F 08:30–21:00. Belgian discount supermarket based in Halle, offering the lowest prices on branded foods. Smaller selection than Carrefour, but a bit cheaper. A great place to shop for snacks!
- 6 Bio World, Langestraat 6, ☏ 32 2 772 62 97. M–Th 09:00–19:00, F 09:00–20:00. Since 2011 the largest store for organic food in Kraainem, with a selection of daily fresh bread, vegetables, and groceries. A wide range of drinks, milk (almond milk, rice, coconut, ...), fruit and vegetable juices. They also have a selection of organic wines, as well as gluten free products such as bread, baguettes and cake. Strong emphasis on locally produced goods.
- 7 Carrefour Express, Arthur Dezangrélaan 11, ☏ 32 2 720 98 01. Tu–Su 07:30–20:00. Small supermarket in High Kraainem, more expensive than Carrefour or Colruyt, but one of the few that are open on Sundays.
- 8 Delhaize, Wezembeeklaan 112, ☏ 32 2 784 36 48. M–Th 08:00–20:00, F 08:00–21:00. Supermarket specialised in fine foods and luxury products. Too expensive for general grocery shopping, but a great place to search for Belgian specialties (chocolate, Speculoos spread, beers), souvenirs, and presents for family when you return home.
Jej
Getting the taste of real Belgian fries is a must when visiting Kraainem. A fritkot is the traditional Flemish version of a street vendor specializing in fries (and other types of fast food). Another local speciality are smoutebollen, dough pastries deep fried in vegetable oil and served with powdered sugar.
Lokalne specialitete
- 1 De Lijsterbes. Small restaurant in the Cultural Centre in the Kraainem town center. It specializes in traditional Flemish dishes (paling in 't groen, stoofvlees, tomate crevette, and many others). Ask for the dish of the day (dagschotel) for €12. Mostly visited by locals, and a great opportunity to get to know local residents and initiate smalltalk with them. Very kids friendly. Reservations are mandatory in the weekend. €12–20.
- 2 Frituur. A traditional Flemish fritkot serving fries, among many other types of fast food. Ask for home made fries, or you may be adversely served the industrial, frozen variant, with less flavor.
- 3 Deli, Koningin Astridlaan 265, ☏ 32 2 688 39 58. 07:30–22:00. Prepared sandwiches and salads, energy and candy bars, and assorted foods. Expensive, but open until 22:00. Most food items are available at Carrefour 300 m further for a lower price.
Italijansko
- 4 San Tucci, Prinses Joséphine Charlotteplaats 8, ☏ 32 2 782 00 45. Tu–Sa 12:00–14:30, 18:00–22:00; Su 12:00–14:30. A fine dining Italian restaurant, specializing in pasta dishes and antipasti. They don't serve pizza, and the owner will gladly explain you the logic behind that decision if you ask for it. A romantic setting, 15-minute walk from the Kraainem town centreq. Not suitable for families with kids. The restaurant is almost always fully booked, so reservations are mandatory. €10–25.
- 5 [prej mrtva povezava]I Gusto, Wezembeeklaan 66, ☏ 32 472 544 544, ✉[email protected]. Tu–Sa 09:00–20:00, Su 09:00–13:00. Take-away Italian food on a walking distance from Central Park and the historic Bouvier-Washer Cité.
Azijski
- 6 Fu-Lai. Asian cuisine in a relaxing setting. Fairly priced. The large aquariums with countless exotic fish next to the tables are a popular attraction for kids. €77–20.
- 7 [mrtva povezava]Wok House, Leuvensesteenweg 179, 1932 Zaventem, ☏ 32 2 721 96 48. M–Sa 11:30–14:30, 17:30–11:00, Su 11:30–15:30, 17:30–11:00. A Chinese self-service restaurant with a massive buffet including warm and cold appetizers, sushi, dim-sums, soup, salad bar, wok and deserts. On Sundays and holidays, teppanyaki is also served at an additional cost. Good choice for family events and large groups, or for dining or dinner with kids. Can be reached easily with bus 358, 351, 410, 359 or 318. Closed on Tuesdays. Reservation is usually not necessary. Prices range from €10.90 for lunch during the week to €22.50 for lunch and dinner during the weekends, including teppanyaki. Reduction for children.
- 8 Lotus, Oudstrijderslaan 81, ☏ 32 2 721 98 33. Tu–Su 12:00–14:45, 18:00–22:00. Chinese restaurant right across Eclair park, a few minutes walking from Low Kraainem. Mid-range, good value. Accommodation for larger groups, for example family celebration events. Kids friendly. Priporočljive so rezervacije.
- 9 Thai by Tom, Koningin Astridlaan 315, ☏ 32 2 731 53 84, ✉[email protected]. Tu–F 12:00–14:30, 18:00–21:30. Cozy Thai restaurant with limited seating, but excellent food for those appreciating the oriental cuisine. Reservation is recommended. Most of their offers are also available as take away.
Pijte
Bars in Kraainem still play an prominent social role in society, although their importance is declining. All bars serve a variety of warm and cold, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Some may not have a traditional menu with a listing of all the available drinks at every table, in which case you simply ask the waiter or waitress what you'd like. He/she will be happy to recommend you alternatives if your preference isn't available. There are no age restrictions for entering a bar, but minors won't be allowed to order alcoholic drinks or beverages with high caffeine content.
Although tap water is safe to drink, few restaurants or bars will serve it. When ordering still water, you'll be served more expensive bottled water (Spa, Bru, Chaudfontaine, ...) instead.
Priljubljenost ice tea as a soft drink is in Kraainem on par with Coca Cola, and widely available. When ordering ice tea, most restaurants and bars will serve you Lipton Ice Tea Lemon, a favourite among Belgians, which is sparkling unlike its variants in neighbouring countries (i.e. Germany). If you prefer non sparkling ice tea, order Nestea instead. The latter may not be universally available, however.
By far the most popular drink served in bars is pivo, one of Belgium's national prides. Many types and brands are available, each having different flavors and alcoholic content. Some types may not be available around the year, particularly those based on fruits, or those meant for special occasions (i.e. Christmas beers with cinnamon). The most common beers are Stela, Jupiler in Maes, and bars will serve at least one of those. When ordering a pint ali pintje (pronounced with the jaz od konča), you'll be served the common beer they have on hand. Since no tap water is served in bars, a pintje (33 cl) is often cheaper than still water (50 cl). There are around 130 officially recognised breweries in Belgium, producing over 1000 beer types. In addition, many locals brew their own beer as a hobby, with carefully developed recipes, and often better taste than commercial beers. Ali ne attempt to order industrially produced beers like Heineken ali Budweiser in Belgian bars, these beers are regarded as inferior and you'll insult the waiter or waitress by doing so. While Belgian beers are widely regarded as the best in the world, they are also the strongest in alcoholic content, some reaching 10 - 13% vol. This may be an inconvenient surprise to those not expecting such a high concentration.
The traditional beer of Kraainem, Brussels and the Pajottenland is the lambic. These beers differ from other beers because they are fermented by wild yeasts and bacteria native to the Senne valley instead of cultivated brewer's yeast. This gives lambic beers their more accentuated flavour, often with a sour aftertaste. A popular variant is the kriek lambic, a type of fruit beer (fruitbier) which is made by fermenting lambic with sour Morello cherries native to the nearby municipality of Schaarbeek. The cherries are added in whole (including pits) and left to ripe for several months, their sugars are fermented completely, thus resulting in an unsweetened but fruit flavored beer. Some breweries add sugar after the fermentation process to obtain a less intense, mild flavour, targeting female customers. Variants with raspberries instead of cherries (frambozenlambiek) are also available. A special variant of the lambic is the geuze, which is produced by blending young (1 year old) and older (2 - 3 years old) lambic. The fermentable sugars present in the young lambic cause a second fermentation cycle in the bottle, resulting in a higher carbon dioxide content. Unlike other lambics, geuze bottles are therefore highly pressurised and should be handled with care. They will therefore not be allowed on airplanes, even checked in.
- 1 De Lijsterbes, Lijsterbessenbomenlaan 4, ☏ 32 2 725 20 41. Trendy bar associated with the community centre with the same name, located in a modern glass building on a 5-min walk from the High Kraainem historic center. Large selection of soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, coffee and tea. Also serves a warm lunch, see "Eat". Small snacks are available throughout the day. Very popular with locals, government officials working at the nearby town hall, and retired elderly. The best place in Kraainem to meet locals and have a chat about nearly any topic, if you're not under time pressure at least.
- 2 De Ronne Hoeck, Oudstrijderslaan 3, ☏ 32 479 96 54 76. A traditional Flemish bar (kavarna ali kroeg), one of the last remaining in Kraainem. Bars like De Ronne Hoeck (Flemish dialect for the round corner, referring to its location) used to play an important role in Flemish social life until the early 2000s, because they served as meeting points for locals of all social classes and ranks. For many commoners it used to be a daily routine to pass through the local bar on their way home from work, to discuss politics, sports and assorted topics while beers helped to forget the burdens of work. Traditional bars like De Ronne Hoeck are characterised by the lack of proper illumination and dark coloured wooden furniture, leading to the name bruine kroeg (literally brown bar). From the 21st century the popularity of traditional bars declined sharply under pressure of the expensive euro, the ban on indoor smoking, and competition with more trendy lounge bars. Not the most inviting to tourists, but an interesting place for those looking to experience Flemish social history.
- 3 The New Inn, Arthur Dezangrélaan 20, ☏ 32 2 241 84 98. A small bar in the historic centre of High Kraainem, in front of the town hall and next to the road leading to the Saint Pancras Church. Their terrace gives a beautiful view over the old town and the church in particular. Focuses on local and international alcoholic drinks, primarily beers.
- 4 Chez Marius 1er, Wezembeeklaan 114, ☏ 32 2 731 79 44. A bar in the Carrefour Planet shopping centre, near the western exit. A convenient place to enjoy Belgian beer and rest after an exhausting shopping experience. Small cuisine (soup and snacks) also available on request.
Spi
Finding cheap lodging in Kraainem may be difficult in the touristic summer season. A convenient alternative is to find accommodations in Brussels and visit Kraainem by Metro (see "Get In") for a day. If you opt to stay in Kraainem, it is recommended to search for lodging offered by locals (B&Bs, guest houses, apartments etc.) to avoid high hotel prices.
- 1 B&B 3B, Jozef van Hovestraat 66. Prijava: 16:00–22:00, preveri: 07:00–10:30. A B&B a 15-min walk from the historic town center, in the famous Jozef van Hovestraat where many 17th- and 18th-century farmsteads are located.
- 2 B&B The Nest, Baron d'Huartlaan 295. Prijava: 18:00–22:30, preveri: 07:30–10:30. A small B&B at 300 m from the Sonian Forest. A direct tram connection leads visitors to the Kraainem city centre and to the Brussels city centre.
- 3 Martine & Didier, In de Poort 11, 1970 Wezembeek-Oppem (take tram 39 until Beek), ☏ 32 475 60 84 42, ✉[email protected]. A B&B run by an elderly couple, just across the border with neighbouring commune Wezembeek-Oppem. It is in a residential neighbourhood away from the street side, very quiet, and a good night rest is guaranteed here. Breakfast is optional for €5. Walking from Kraainem Central Park takes 25 - 30 minutes.
- 4 A Sunny and Green Real Home, Raymond Hernalsteenstraat 57, 1970 Wezembeek-Oppem. Prijava: 15:00–00:00, preveri: 11:00. A guest house in the neighbouring municipality Wezembeek-Oppem. Not easily reachable by public transport, a car or taxi is required to connect to the Kraainem town centre.
- 5 AirBnB Hélène, Groenstraat 43. Preveri: 12:00. Located in an apartment building in the centre of Kraainem, 2 minutes away from the Bouvier-Washer Cité and 5 minutes from the Kraainem Shopping Center on Wezembeek Avenue. The Kraainem metro station is 8 minutes walking away, permitting easy access into the Brussels city. €59/night.
- 6 B&B Martine & Didier, In de Poort 11, ☏ 32 2 736 63 19, ✉[email protected]. A small house with 3 rooms that can be rented individually or together, close to the International German School of Brussels, and on walking distance from the tram to Kraainem City Centre and Bruselj. €80.
A small camping site is located on the border between Kraainem and Wezembeek-Oppem. However, Belgian weather can be very unpredictable and wet, even in summer, if you consider camping. Under Belgian law, camping is only allowed on officially recognised camp sites, and camping in public parks or forests may result in a fine between €60 and €200.
- 7 3CB Camping Caravaning Club Brussels, Warandeberg 52, 1970 Wezembeek-Oppem, ☏ 32 2 782 10 09. A camping in the neighbouring municipality of Wezembeek-Oppem. A 25-min walk away from the Kraainem town center.
Povežite se
Telephone boxes have been phased out, and Kraainem's last telephone box on the Wezembeeklaan was torn down in 2015. In case of emergency, local inhabitants or businesses will happily lend you their land line if necessary if you urgently need to make a call.
Kraainem also has complete 3G coverage, so with a European SIM card it is possible to connect to 3G Internet. Roaming may be expensive if your operator is not based in a European Union country (see also Evropska unija article). Alternatively, a SIM card may be purchased from the local operator Mobile Vikings, which offers 2 GB data volume for €12 and accepts payment by PayPal, Bitcoin, and many mainstream payment options.
- 4 Postal Point (Postpunt), Wezembeeklaan 114. Send and receive mail, packages and post cards.
- 5 Postal Office (Postkantoor), Potaardestraat 10. M–F 09:30–12:30, 13:30–17:00; Sa 09:30–13:00. Largest postal office in Kraainem, selling postal related commodities (boxes, envelopes, stamps). Doubles as a bank office, allowing sending and receiving money.
Free Wi-Fi is available at Carrefour (Wezembeeklaan 114) and the adjacent but very poor quality and thus not recommendable Lunch Garden restavracija. Many other smaller cafés, restaurants, bars and shops also offer free Wi-Fi.
Ostani varen
Kraainem is usually safe, both during the day and at night. The dangerous Belgian traffic probably poses the most significant risk to visitors, so take care when crossing streets. Jaywalking is not a criminal offence in Belgium, but that does not mean drivers will slow down either, unless you're crossing on a marked pedestrian crossing. Beware of pickpockets in shopping areas and on public transport. Groups of youth are known to hang around the Kraainem metro station in the evening and harass travellers, so it is advised to avoid the immediate area around the station at night or travel in groups.
- 6 Policija (Politie WOKRA), Molenweg 20, 1970 Wezembeek-Oppem, ☏ 32 2 766 18 18. Local police station for Kraainem and Wezembeek-Oppem. Officers can be expected to communicate fluently in Dutch and English. For emergencies, call 112 instead of 32 2 766 18 18.
Ostani zdrav
There are few health hazards to worry about in Kraainem. Tap water in Kraainem, and most of the rest of Flanders, is drinkable, and as healthy as bottled mineral water. Fountains and wells on the other hand are ne suitable for human consumption. In summer, klopi are routinely encountered in the region, and are known to carry Lyme disease, which can be deadly if left untreated. If you spot pink or red circles on your skin after a walk in the forests or parks, you may be infected, and should seek medical help immediately.
- 7 Dr. P. & S. Van Mulders, Arthur Dezangrélaan 20, ☏ 32 2 720 10 51. M 08:30–10:00, W 08:30–10:00, F 08:30–10:00, Sa 09:30–11:00. General medicine.
- 8 Dr. Claudine Vande Wal, dr. Aline Agneessens, Koningin Astridlaan 145. 32 2 725 06 96. General medicine.
- 9 Dr. Stefaan Van Mulders, Koningin Astridlaan 23. General medicine.
Medical supplies can be acquired from pharmacies:
- 10 Pharmacy Matterne, Koningin Astridlaan 23, ☏ 32 2 731 73 68. M–F 08:30–12:30, 13:30–19:00; Sa 9: 00-13: 00. General medicine.
- 11 Pharmacy Dynaphar, Koningin Astridlaan 272, ☏ 32 2 731 06 06. M–F 09:00–19:00; Sa 09:00–12:30. General medicine.
- 12 Pharmacy Piens, Arthur Dezangrélaan 35, ☏ 32 2 720 47 90. General medicine.
In case of medical emergency, the nearby UCL hospital can provide medical services. To call an ambulance, dial 112 and specify your position. An ambulance will be dispatched to pick you up.
- 13 UCL hospital (Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc), Hippokrateslaan 10, 1200 St-Lambrechts-Woluwe, ☏ 32 2 764 16 02. Hospital on the border between Kraainem and St-Lambrechts-Woluwe, 5 min from Kraainem town centre. In case of emergency, walk to the spoedgevallen (emergency cases) where you'll be treated without prior appointment.
- 14 Health & Care Medical Center, Wezembeeklaan 106, ☏ 32 2 688 18 00, ✉[email protected]. Neighbourhood clinic next to the Carrefour Planet commercial area, equipped to treat minor injuries and illnesses. Making an appointment by phone is recommendable.
If pets get ill or hurt, a veterinarian office is available in the Kraainem town center.
- 15 Dr. Marc Simons, Arthur Dezangrélaan 4, ☏ 32 2 721 37 05. 17:00–18:30. General animal health, treatment of pets and farm animals. Making an appointment by telephone is recommendable.
Pojdi naprej
- 1 Bruselj — the capital of Belgium and host of many of the European Union institutions.
- 2 Leuven — famous for beer, technology, and one of the oldest universities in Western Europe. Well preserved historic city centre.
- Hike through the 1 Sonian Forest, the "green lung" of Brussels, known for its century-old beech trees.
- 3 Tervuren — a picturesque town in the shadow of the Sonian Forest with a large public park and former summer residence palace of the Belgian king.
- 4 Grimbergen — famous for its abbey and beer.