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Zaventem

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Nestled amidst the vibrant energy of Flemish Brabant, Zaventem is far more than just the home of Brussels Airport. Zaventem’s story intertwines with the airport’s history, a tale of humble beginnings, rapid growth, and resilience in the face of adversity. Right here, where the roar of jet engines now fills the air, once lay quiet agricultural fields. In 1940, these fields were seized by the German occupying forces, transformed into Fliegerhorst Melsbroek, a military airfield. Three triangular runways were constructed, two of which, 02/20 and 07L/25R, still serve Brussels Airport today. Interestingly, the original airport buildings were located in nearby Melsbroek, giving the airport its initial local name. After the liberation in 1944, the British took control of the airfield. As the old Haren airport in Brussels proved inadequate, Melsbroek was chosen as the site for the new national airport. A new terminal arose in 1948, replacing the former wooden structure. Zaventem’s fate was sealed in 1956 when the Belgian government decided to build a new airport, retaining the existing runways but shifting the buildings to Zaventem itself. This move was prompted by the upcoming 1958 World’s Fair, and the new Zaventem terminal was inaugurated just in time. The old Melsbroek buildings continue to serve the Belgian Air Force, sharing the runways with Brussels Airport. Zaventem witnessed the airport’s dramatic expansion during the aviation boom of the 1960s and 70s. New hangars and a cargo terminal were built, followed by a brand new terminal in 1994. Even the tragic events of 22 March 2016, when terrorist bombings rocked Zaventem and Brussels Airport, couldn’t break its spirit. The airport was closed for 11 days, reopening with limited capacity, yet it steadily recovered and returned to full operation. Zaventem, forever linked to Brussels Airport, stands as a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the relentless pursuit of progress. From foggy fields to a global hub, Zaventem’s journey is a testament to its adaptability and strength.

The story of Zaventem in Brussels is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Brussels and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Brussels in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Brussels with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Brussels – only with Explory.

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