The Netherlands and Belgium share a common state border that partly runs through the homes of the residents. The reason for this is rooted in history. Today, the uniqueness of the state border is a tourist attraction.
Which countries are involved? The Netherlands and Belgium, both German neighbors, share a common border that runs for over 478 kilometers. This border has been more or less established since October 4, 1830, when Belgium declared its independence.
However, a peculiarity of the state border is the border between the municipalities of Baarle-Nassau (Netherlands) and Baarle-Hertog (Belgium). Here, the borders partially run through homes and businesses. This is primarily due to historical reasons.
The border line originates from historical times and was established in 1843
Why is the border so chaotic? The partially very chaotic border line originates from historical times. The lords of Nassau (now Breda) and the dukes of Brabant entered into numerous contracts and agreements during the Middle Ages regarding land exchanges and the sale of parcels. This resulted in a colorful mix of territories.
After Belgium’s independence, some areas suddenly belonged to Belgium while others belonged to the Netherlands. The final division was ratified as part of the border regulations in the Treaty of Maastricht in 1843. Since then, the borders have more or less remained firm.
For this reason, the Belgian Baarle-Hertog is an enclave in the Netherlands, and several smaller areas also belong to Belgium today.
How can you see the border line? To show the borders, measures have been taken in Baarle-Nassau and Baarle-Hertog:
- The border lines are marked with border stones, which can be seen in the paving of the streets. In some cases, these run through homes and businesses.
- The style of house numbers differs in both countries. Often, the Dutch or Belgian flag next to the house number indicates which country it belongs to.
Today, the borders that run through homes and businesses are primarily a tourist attraction, causing amazement and amusement among tourists and locals alike. For instance, someone commented on Reddit:
So if you’re arguing with your spouse, you can yell: ‘That’s it, I’m moving to Belgium!’
And another user commented on the strange borders:
Do your homework or I will send you abroad!
Are there such areas in Germany as well? Yes, the best-known example of such an enclave is Büsingen am Hochrhein. Büsingen is a German municipality on the right bank of the Rhine and is completely surrounded by Swiss territory.
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