Overijse

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Overijse is a municipality in the province of Flemish Brabant, in Flanders, one of the three regions of Belgium. The municipality only comprises the town of Overijse proper. On January 1, 2006 Overijse had a total population of 24,067. The total area is 44.43 km² which gives a population density of 542 inhabitants per km². Overijse is surrounded by an extensive woodlands (Zonienwoud/Forêt de Soignes), with walk- and bicycle paths. The community is home to a huge numbers of expatriates, and it is considered as a very attractive area to live in.

The official language is Dutch (as everywhere in Flanders). Local minorities consist of nationals from many European Union-countries, the USA and Canada, and of French-speaking residents that migrated mainly from Wallonia or Brussels.

Near Overijse there is a medium wave transmitter for the Belgian foreign radio service. Overijse has a traditional festival every year, held in August (Druivenfeesten). The festival commemorates the industry that shaped the area, namely cultivation of grapes (Dutch druiven). In 2006 it will be held in from August 19-27.

Overijse was also the birthplace of one of the most famous 16th century humanists in history, Justus Lipsius.