Over the past six centuries, both the city and the university have evolved into a globally renowned center of knowledge and innovation. From trailblazers like Andreas Vesalius, Gerardus Mercator, Desiderius Erasmus and Georges Lemaître to today’s cutting-edge research, KU Leuven continues to shape science, culture and society.
In 2025, KU Leuven celebrates this rich legacy with a full year of exhibitions, lectures, art, and heritage activities.
Art and science route: And so, change comes in waves
Eight artists, newer as well as international establishes talents, and eight poets collaborated with KU Leuven researchers to tackle today’s biggest questions. Featured artists include Sammy Baloji, Clara Spilliaert, Berlinde De Bruyckere, and Alicja Kwade. Their work results in a new art-and-science route through the city, weaving past iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
This route highlights how science and art reinforce one another while exploring topics like climate change, resilience, access to education, and ethics in healthcare.
Clara Spilliaert in her studio (c) KU Leuven-Rob Stevens
Wandering garden
One of the most eye-catching artworks in the trail is ‘Wandering Garden’ by the Belgian duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh, located in Arenberg Park. Where a concrete parking lot once stood, an immense steel structure now rises, set to transform into a lush green labyrinth.
In collaboration with KU Leuven’s Plant Institute, 90 climbing plant species will gradually cover the structure and turn it into a living artwork. Designed especially for the university’s 600th anniversary, this piece embodies transformation, growth, and wonder.
Wandering Garden - Gijs Van Vaerenbergh (c) Jan Crab
Discover KU Leuven's heritage
As you stroll through Leuven, you can’t miss the university's iconic buildings: architectural gems steeped in history and packed with art and scientific collections. Some streets even connect through college courtyards, giving the city its distinctive character.
On weekends and select public holidays, guided tours are available for individuals. Visit highlights such as Arenberg Castle and Library, BAC ART LAB, the Hollands College, the Museum of Zoology, the Spoelberch Museum, the Thermotechnical Institute, and the University Hall.
Themed walking tours also explore the university's legacy in the city center or the Groot Begijnhof. For groups, tailor-made tours can be arranged. Find all heritage tours via this link.
University Library © Filip Van Loock
Major exhibitions at M Leuven & University Library
From October 10 to February 22, 2026, KU Leuven's 600-year history takes center stage in two major exhibitions, one at the University Library and one at M Leuven. The library exhibition traces the winding path of the university and shares stories of female students, groundbreaking researchers, and distinguished alumni.
At M Leuven, the focus is on KU Leuven's study collections, including the rare Leuven Chansonnier, whose music comes to life through an immersive multimedia experience.
Discover the full programme here.
Why not make it a weekend in Leuven? Find an accommodation here.
