![Traditional Gothic stube from a Val Pusteria farmhouse in the Dolomites, built around 1500, acquired by the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum (Tiroler volkskunstmuseum) in Innsbruck, Austria, where it has been on display in its original state since 1929. [OC]](https://preview.redd.it/p80tdd6f622h1.jpeg?auto=webp&s=b3a6d34fa9a5b4c53999ab1d86c49a937c1a72bc)
The history of the institute is fascinating. In 1841, a local priest asked the Ursuline nuns to provide free education for local girls. To fund this mission, they opened a boarding school that achieved immense international success. This led to a virtuous cycle of architectural improvements, culminating in this Winter Garden—the school’s crowning jewel.
The imposing bell tower houses a famous carillon, and the building has become a major symbol of the city and its academic history.
KU Leuven, founded in 1425, is one of the oldest Catholic universities still in operation in the world and the largest university in Belgium.
It is the smallest of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria and the only one he saw completed during his lifetime. It was his favorite residence, where he spent a great deal of time from 1876 onwards.
The Antwerp Stock Exchange (Handelsbeurs) ceased its official financial activities in 1997, following a merger with the Brussels Stock Exchange. After its closure in 1997, the building remained empty and unoccupied for over 20 years. Following renovations (since 2019), the main hall (the atrium) is now a multi-purpose space for exhibitions, fashion shows, gala dinners, and conferences. The complex also now houses a luxury hotel.