Belgium’s KU Leuven, the oldest university in the country, is celebrating its 600th anniversary in 2025 and February is the month in which an exciting programme of birthday events will begin.
An open weekend is set to take place over 15 and 16 February 2025, allowing access to research labs and buildings across three different campus locations:
- at Gasthuisberg (where the university hospital UZ Leuven sits);
- at the attractive green domain of Arenberg, the institution’s science and technology hub with its newly-inaugurated Quadrivium building;
- and the historic University Hall in the city centre, originally a weavers’ market, with impressive vaulted ceilings and a beloved coffee shop.
“We are delighted to launch the 600th anniversary celebrations of our university,” said Chancellor Luc Sels. “This event is for anyone interested in learning more about KU Leuven and the university hospital (UZ Leuven), those nostalgic about their student days, and the curious who want to see the impact of scientific research, now and in the future.”
600-second lectures
There will be fun and deep learning for all ages, with a series of “600-second lectures”. Consider the relationship between the media and our identity, or hear from cancer and diabetes specialists about their work. Other subject matter for talks and exhibitions will include the role of law in the climate crisis, or, less drily perhaps, an immersion in what it feels like to walk with an exoskeleton.
The establishment is famous as one of the birthplaces of the Big Bang Theory of an expanding universe originating from a primeval atom, even though it is the oldest surviving Catholic university in the world. It is a world top 50 research university, whose student life lends a buzz to the city.
Party weekend across the city
There is no division between “town and gown” when it comes to this year’s celebrations, as the city will be joining in too. Over the inaugural weekend’s Saturday and Sunday evenings, the city is contributing to the ‘KU Leuven Outside’ programme, with a light and balloon show and four-storey artwork illuminating Ladeuze Square from 4pm.
Moving into the evening, electronic dance collective Affair are set to take Ladeuze Square by storm. A range of other festive events will also be held across various locations in Leuven from Saturday night into Sunday, with another party taking place at the dance, image and sound venue STUK! And if nostalgia is more your style, why not try the throwback to legendary student parties of the past that will be happening at Het Depot.
