LGBTQ+ Facts
LGBTQ+ rights in Belgium are very progressive; in 2021, Belgium even placed second in the European Union for the most LGBTQ+ rights protection, just behind Malta. ILGA-Europe conducted this report.
Even though Ninove, Belgium, doesn’t have an LGBTQ+ scene, it is only a short distance from Brussels, known for its queer nightlife and other activities.
Mental Health in Ninove, Belgium
A recent online survey distributed in Belgium during the first wave of the pandemic has indicated that mental distress has been higher in youth (ages 16 to 25.) Researchers analyzed predictors of mental distress, like demographics, chronic conditions, history of mental health issues, social support systems, exposure to COVID-19, and changes in daily functioning and activities.
The study concluded that young people are suffering at higher rates of mental distress than ever due to the pandemic. This mental distress was exceptionally high among women, those who were lonely or had little social support, and those whose daily life was drastically impacted.
**Note: This language features gender dichotomously as that is what is indicated in the research, and it does not talk about any variability. We used the language in these statistics because the study reported this.
If you are looking for a psychologist for kids in the Ninove area, look through our listings at LGBTQ and ALL.
Top Features for Ninove, Belgium
Ninove, Belgium, is a city and municipality in East Flanders. It can be found on the river Dender, making it part of the Denderstreek.
Some of the top attractions in Ninove include:
- Neigembos
- Dendervallei Ninove
- Mark
- De Nuchten
- Museum Belgisch Trekpaard
- Hertboommolen
Facts
The inhabitants of Ninove were given the title of “wortelmannen” or “wortels” (carrot people or carrot in Dutch). Locals received this nickname because, in the Middle Ages, the residents of Ninove were surprised by an attack and were unprepared. Due to all the confusion, the key to close the city gate was misplaced, and they couldn’t find it. So instead, to bolt the gate, locals used a carrot. However, a passing donkey saw the carrot and then ate it, leaving the city gate open and free for entry for the militiamen from Aalst.
Antonius Sanderus, a Flemish Catholic cleric and historian, described Ninove as “the Oldest, the Boldest and the Wisest of Cities.” There are many reasons why it received this name. First, Ninove was referred to as the oldest city because of the similarity of its name with the ancient city Nineveh. Then, it was called the boldest due to waiting on the enemy with open gates. Finally, it was referred to as the wisest because the city lacked jester or town fool.
History/Data
Ninove was first a small settlement while it was under Roman rule. At that time, it was located in the current “Nederwijk.” The settlement evolved into a small agricultural town when the Franks arrived in the 4th century AD. The area where Ninove is now located was part of the Holy Roman Empire from 843.
Since 2018, Ninove has had a total population of 38,692 residents.