Ostende.

Title

Ostende.

Description

View of Ostend with the Chalet Royal with upstream vessels. Ostend is a port city and seaside resort in Belgium.

ca. 1840

Artist

Anonymus

Historical Description

Ostend is a Belgian coastal city on the North Sea, known for its beach, promenade, and maritime heritage. Originally, Ostend was a small fishing village on an island between two canals. The name literally means “east end,” referring to the eastern part of the island. The place was already mentioned in the 9th century and was granted city status in the 13th century. 1601–1604: The Siege of Ostend was one of the longest and bloodiest sieges of the Eighty Years’ War between Spain and the Netherlands. In the 18th century, Ostend was the base of the Ostend Company, a trading company engaged in commerce with India and China—similar to the British and Dutch East India Companies. In the 19th century, under King Leopold I and especially Leopold II, Ostend became a popular seaside resort for the elite. Many elegant buildings, hotels, and a casino were constructed. Today, Ostend is a popular holiday destination that combines modern architecture, Belle Époque charm, and a bustling harbor.