Belgium, a country with rich biocultural diversity, offers a fascinating blend of landscapes and habitats. Agriculture plays a significant role, shaping the country's cultural landscape with wheat fields, orchards, and vegetable cultivation areas. Additionally, heathland farming and the conservation of nature reserves are crucial for the protection and preservation of native flora and fauna, especially in regions like the High Fens and the Kempen. Maritime activities have historically influenced Belgium and continue to provide an important connection to the world and marine ecosystems. The Belgian North Sea coast and adjacent wetlands are important habitats for various bird species and other coastal wildlife. The diversity of landscapes, from flat polders to the gentle hills of the Ardennes, provides habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. Despite its small size, Belgium is a living example of the importance of biocultural diversity and the interaction between humans and nature.
Jan van Eyck (born 1380-1395 in Maaseik, died 1441 in Bruges) was a well-known artist who was also highly valued by other artists at the time. But there are no statements from contemporary witnesses about his supposed brother Hubert. The Ghent Altarpiece is considered a joint work by the van Eyck brothers and is the main reason for Hubert's fame. The Ghent Altarpiece was started in the mid-1420s and, according to some information, was completed in 1432. According to other dates, the chapel was consecrated in 1432 and the altar was not placed until three years later. Hubert died in 1426. Albrecht Dürer, who saw this work with his own eyes, only spoke of Jan van Eyck's work and did not say a word about Hubert. If you consider how important the participation of Hubert later was to the city of Ghent, it is so surprising that he received no attention for a long time and died under poor conditions.
Perhaps it is far more likely that the city of Ghent later discovered that there was a citizen named Hubert van Eyck. A good opportunity to bring some fame to the city.
A wonderful sunny autumn getaway. 🍂🌲🌞 The sandy ground around Averbode is ideal for the pine forest. If you hike here, you cross a very varied landscape with dunes, heaths and moors.💚
As a witness to time and its relentless transformation, the young oak clings to its leaves. In its marcescence lies the beauty of both letting go and holding on - a reminder that the old remains rooted within us as we bravely embrace new paths of growth.🍂✨️🌿
Most trees shed their withered leaves at the onset of the dormant period. However, some species retain their withered leaves until the end of the dormant period, a phenomenon known as marcescence. This trait is typical for young oaks, while its occurrence in older oaks depends on the species.
The evolutionary reasons for marcescence are not clear. The tough, nutrient-poor leaves likely serve to shield the still delicate buds from being consumed. Additionally, the loud rustling sound they produce can act as a deterrent. The timing of leaf shedding also affects when essential nutrients become accessible through decomposition. Dry soils tend to retain moisture more effectively. Oak trees, in particular, demonstrate remarkable adaptation to dry and nutrient-poor soils.
