Pronunciation: [lˈuːvən] (IPA) 
Leuven, located in Belgium, is pronounced as [ˈløːvə(n)] in IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of this word may seem confusing to those unfamiliar with Dutch pronunciation. In Dutch, the letter combination "eu" is pronounced as a long "øː" sound. The "v" is pronounced as a "v" sound in English, while the "en" at the end is pronounced as a syllabic "n." So, despite the unusual spelling, "Leuven" is pronounced as "Loo-ven" in English.
Leuven is a noun that refers to a city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. With a population of around 100,000 inhabitants, it is the capital of the province of Flemish Brabant. Historically known as Louvain, the city is renowned for its prestigious and internationally recognized university, the KU Leuven, which is one of the oldest universities in the world, established in 1425.
Leuven is a charming and picturesque city, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Its city center features stunning buildings, such as the Gothic-style Town Hall, which is widely regarded as one of Belgium's most beautiful municipal buildings. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural events taking place throughout the year.
In addition to its academic and cultural significance, Leuven has a strong beer tradition. The city is home to several renowned breweries, producing a variety of delicious Belgian beers, including the world-famous Stella Artois. This has contributed to the city's popularity among beer enthusiasts from all around the globe.
Overall, Leuven is a vibrant and thriving city, combining a world-class academic institution, architectural splendor, and a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for visitors and a vibrant place to live for its residents.
The word "Leuven" has a Dutch origin. It is derived from the Old Dutch word "Loven", which means "to praise" or "to honor". Over time, the spelling evolved to "Loven" or "Louven", and eventually settled as "Leuven" during the Middle Ages. The name likely refers to the city being an esteemed or celebrated place.
