Solvay: the Bill Gates of the 19th century
Parc Solvay (La Hulpe) and Sonian Forest
Solvay is one of Belgium's largest companies. And Ernest Solvay created it in the mid-19th century, building an empire with factories in every corner of the planet. Like Bill Gates today, he also made an impact outside his company.
For lovers of history, culture, entrepreneurial stories and nature.
The stories
The Solvay family, a very strange neighbour, the biggest real estate operation ever, the baby skin of beech trees, how a freemason moves a cave, artists of all kinds, Steve Jobs' Apple doesn't fall far from the tree, about Obelix and the obelisk, when Einstein and other bigwigs have their photo taken, the battle of the Pomme de Paradis against Jonagold, and finally: you're never too old to change your path...
Practical information
Location Parc Solvay à La Hulpe
Distance 8 km
Duration 3h
/// ATTENTION /// May be difficult for people with limited mobility.
