A bustling airport a stone’s throw away. That’s Machelen for you. A blend of modern convenience and historical roots.
Machelen a municipality in Flemish Brabant is more than just a suburb of Brussels. It’s a community with its own unique identity. It boasts a rich history including Diegem a town within Machelen’s borders. Did you know that a part of Brussels Airport is actually located in Diegem?
Machelen’s story isn’t just about planes taking off. It’s about the people who live and work here. Brussels Airlines for example has its headquarters in Machelen. The company formed in 2006 from a merger. It’s a testament to the town’s dynamic economy. Other businesses such as Chevron Phillips also have offices in Machelen. This highlights the town’s strategic location near the airport.
Beyond the corporate world Machelen has a vibrant community life. Several schools cater to its residents. Gemeentelijke Basisschool De Fonkel is one example. There’s also a public library Bibliotheek Machelen-Diegem serving the needs of both Machelen and Diegem.
Machelen is also strategically situated. Three major road junctions connect it to the wider Belgian road network. The Brussels Ring and A201 provide access to the airport. The A1 connects Machelen to Mechelen and Antwerp. The N211 serves as a feeder road to Vilvoorde. The Buda railway station offers convenient rail access though only certain train routes stop there. Other lines prefer to use Vilvoorde station.
Machelen’s population has grown steadily over the years. It had a population of 12500 in 2006. By 2018 this number increased to 15417. This indicates Machelen’s continued appeal as a place to live and work. The official language of Machelen is Dutch reflecting the Flemish region of Belgium.
Machelen is a place where history and modernity intertwine. Its strategic location its bustling economy and its close proximity to Brussels make it a unique part of Belgium. It’s not just a municipality. It’s a community a hub of activity and a hidden gem near Brussels. So next time you hear about Brussels remember Machelen. It’s a story worth exploring.