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Tribute to science |
Atomium Square Brussels 1020 Belgium +32 (0)2 475 4777 http://www.atomium.be/ |
This unique structure is located near famous places of interest such as Brupark, Oceade, Mini-Europe and Brussels' Exhibition Park. Engineer André Waterkeyn designed this wonderful building for the 1958 World Exhibition. It is a crystal molecule of iron atom that has been magnified billions of times. Nine massive irons spheres (representing the nine Belgian provinces) are held together by iron corridors. The construction is 102m high and weighs no less than 2,400 tons. You can take a lift, once the fastest in the world, to the top for a view of the city. There's also an exhibition of the Atomium in comics from 1958 to the present, and a film on the building's construction. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art Deco Church |
Parvis de la Basilique 1 Brussels 1081 Belgium +32 (0) 2 425 88 22 http://www.bruxelles-tourisme.... |
The construction of the church started in 1905 under the reign of King Leopold II, but was put on hold during the two world wars and was not completed until 1970. The church is the fifth largest in the world. The huge structure (about 100 feet tall) is made of bricks and terracotta, with two towers on each side of the entrance. As Paris Basilica, it is devoted to the Sacred Heart. Access on the first floor is free of charge, but it is highly recommended to pay the EUR 2 fee to take the elevator to the dome, where you will enjoy one-of-a-kind panorama of the city and its outskirts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Restaurant row in the shadow of Grand Place |
Rue des Bouchers Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
In the shadow of Grand Place, a small passageway gives access to one of the most pleasant places in the city. On this narrow, gastronomic street, the restaurant doors are always open and, at the first sign of sun, tables and chairs line the alley. On display lie mussels, lobsters and oysters, all nicely decorated, awaiting hungry tourists. Brussels' gourmands will tell you that there are five really good restaurants in this neighbourhood: Taverne du Passage and Aux Armes de Bruxelles (traditional brasseries), L'Ogenblik (modern brasserie), Vincent (for meat) and Scheltema (expensive seafood). Also popular, Chez Leon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fun for the whole family |
20 Boulevard du Centenaire Brussels 1020 Belgium +32 (0)2 474 8383 http://www.bruparck.com/ |
During the 1958 World Exhibition, one favourite was Vrolijk België (Merry Belgium). This amalgamation of 'antique' bars was meant to illustrate Belgium's high quality of life. After the exhibition everything, apart from the Atomium, was torn down, but Merry Belgium is back. Now called Brupark, it houses a giant Kinepolis cinema, the swimmer's paradise Oceadium, the popular Mini-Europe, as well as the world-renowned Atomium. Brupark's village can be visited all year round. The bars and restaurants have lovely terraces; there is a playground, a Cyber Café and a beautiful Venetian carousel. Entrance to the village is free. For prices of individual attractions visit the website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Blooming in Brussels |
1 Basilieklaan Basilica of Koekelberg Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 425 8822 |
Each year in October Basiliek van Koekelberg/Basilique de Koekelberg (Koekelberg Basilica), one of the largest churches in the world, gets transformed into one of the largest flower arrangements. Over 100 florists come together for the Brussels Flower Show, which covers the surroundings of the Basilica with tropical flowers and man made waterfalls. One can get a better view of the entire show and city by taking the trip up to the top of the Basilica's dome for a more heightened perspective. Please check the Basilica's website for information about exact dates and times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historical musical venue |
Parvis Sainte-Gudule Treurenberg Hill Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 217 8345 (Pastoral) http://www.cathedralestmichel.be/ |
This cathedral's humble beginnings as a 9th century chapel dedicated to the city's patron saint have not stopped it from becoming a much sought-after tourist, historical and musical destination. Take a guided tour to admire the stained glass and architecture, typical of an old-world church; partake in a liturgical service or enjoy one of the venue's ongoing concerts and events. School choirs and solo performances rule the roost here, and many of the events have free admission. Don't miss out on this all-encompassing location. Look up the web site for regular updates. There's always something going on here that will amaze those with a taste of the old! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dignified war memorial |
Congresplein Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
The Column of Congress was designed in 1850 by architect Joseph Poelaert, who later also built the Palais de Justice. On top of the column, which has a height of 47 metres, there is a 25 metre high statue of Leopold I, the country's first king. This column was erected in commemoration of the National Congress who established the Belgian constitution in 1831. At the foot of the column is the eternal flame, in remembrance of the victims of the two World Wars. In the column itself is the grave of the Unknown Soldier. Every November 11th (Remembrance Day) there is a ceremony here in the presence of the Royal Family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Stock Exchange |
Palais de la Bourse Brussels 1000 Belgium +32(0)2 509 12 11 http://www.euronext.com/editor... |
Architect Léon Suys designed this stately building in 1873, in the middle of the new boulevards connecting the North and South train stations. Its classic style is characterised by six Doric columns in front of the building and a myriad of sculptures representing trade at sea and domestic trade. Recently, the Brussels stock exchange merged with those of Paris and Amsterdam, to become EuroNext. You must make an appointment if you want to visit the building, and groups of 20 or more will be accompanied by a guide. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Brussels, capital of Europe |
Schumanwijk / Quartier Schuman Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 284 2111 (Europees Parlement) http://www.europa.eu/index_nl.htm |
Since 1958, Brussels has been the capital of the European Union. The Berlaymont-building has been home to the European Commission since 1963 and has recently been renovated. The former Quartier Léopold and Quartier Schuman, between Rue de la Loi and Rue Belliard, were torn away piece by piece to make way for the Eurocrats. The International Congress Building where the European Parliament holds its meetings is the most imposing building, but it is likely to be surpassed by others to come. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A good luck arm |
8 Grote Markt Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
In the tiny arcade under Grand Place 8 (The Star), there's a golden statue of Everard 't Serclaes. The Middle Ages were rather tranquil times for Brussels until Lodewijk van Male, the Count of Flanders, seized power in 1355. Eventually, his troops were forced out of the city by a band of citizens, led by Serclaes. Today, according to legend, rubbing the wrist of Julien Dillens' 19th century statue of 't Serclaes will bring good luck and grant long-forgotten wishes. The Star formerly housed a pub where the Belgian Socialist Party was founded. Now it is home to the stylish La Maison du Cygne restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Most splendid square in Europe |
Grote Markt Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor Toeristen) |
This has been called the most splendid market square in Europe. Its esplanade is completely enclosed by tall, gabled, Flemish Renaissance buildings dripping with ornamentation and statues. It is alive with daily commerce and a colorful flower market. Impressive as it is by day, it is even more beautiful at night in the golden glow of floodlights. During spring and summer evenings there is a light show that shouldn't be missed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Upscale and elegant square |
Grote Zavel Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor Toeristen) |
This location is home to many upscale antiques stores, Emporio Armani, the world-renowned pastry boutique, Wittamer, and much more. The square is distinguished by a statue of Minerva, given to the city as a gift in 1751. Here also find Our Lady Church and the Sablon Church. On Saturday from 9a-6p and on Sunday from 9a-2p an antique market is in full swing. Just across the square you'll find Place du Petit Sablon, a quaint garden filled with statues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not as famous as Mannekin |
Getrouwheidsgang / Impasse de la Fidélité Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
In 1985, Denis Adrien Debouvrie was commissioned to create a female counterpart to the world-famous Manneken Pis. Now, in a small alley, which can be reached through the tangle of passages of the Rue des Bouchers, you will discover this statue of a mischievous female doing just the same thing as Manneken Pis. The fountain was built in honour of Loyalty. If you throw a coin into the bowl of the fountain, your deepest wish will be granted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Connecting upper and lower Brussels |
Naamsestraat 10 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 507 1212 (Informatie voor toeristen) http://www.kunstberg.be |
The old Mont-des-Arts (Arts Hill) was a series of stairs bordered by statues and trees, connecting uptown (Place Royale) and downtown (Grand Place). In 1958, it was reshaped and two enormous buildings arrived - the Congress Centre and the Royal Library Albert 1, better known as Albertina, where nearly 4 million books are housed. The Belgian state has also endowed the site with scientific, economic and cultural institutions, such as the Rijksarchief (National Archive) and the Paleis voor Schone Kunsten (Palace of Fine Arts). From the French terrace garden you have a beautiful view of the city centre. Under the archway there is a large clock with moving statuettes. The chimes in the clock play by turns - following Belgian tradition - a Flemish and a French song. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A wee boy who attracts attention from all |
Rue de L'Etuve Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Tourist Information) |
Manneken Pis means as much to Brussels as the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty mean to Paris and New York. The tiny statue was cast in bronze in 1619 by Jerome Duquesnoy but was unfortunately destroyed. Another was cast to replace it in 1630. Seemingly destined to doom, the replacement was repeatedly attacked by the English and the French. The spirit of the tiny boy could not be annihilated however, and his remaining fragments were gathered up and used to form the mould from which today's Manneken Pis was cast. During high season, visitors from around the world gather to see the little, weeing statue's ever-changing wardrobe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Working-class Brussels |
Rue de la Regence en Avenue Louise Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
This is a traditional working-class neighborhood, dominated by the gargantuan Palais de Justice (constructed in 1866-1883 and until recently the largest building in the world). The Marolles now offers a wide selection of dining establishments and antiques shops. Classy restaurants line up next to smoky bars. The neighborhood is famous for its daily flea market on Place du Jeu-de-Balle, the central square; but arrive early (before 6a!) if you want to pick up the genuine bargains. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Europe at your feet |
1 Avenue du Football Brussels 1020 Belgium +32 (0)2 474 1313 http://www.minieurope.com/ |
Visit all of Europe's highlights in miniature form. No need for the Chunnel: Big Ben is really just a few paces from the Eiffel Tower. Added to the fun is the fact that you don't just admire Mini Europe's sights, you can also participate. Want to erupt Vesuvius? Just press the button. Want to tear the Berlin Wall down once again? Go ahead. The miniature trees and plants in the park make everything appear realistic in scale. On weekends during the high season you can also visit at night and watch the musical firework display. Fun for young and old. Check website or call for admission details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All arts under one roof |
23 Rue Ravensteinstraat 23 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 507 8200 http://www.bozar.be/home.php?l... |
Built in 1928 by architect Victor Horta, the Palace of Fine Arts draws all art forms under the same roof: visual arts, music, theater, literature, ballet and an assortment of temporary exhibits. The world-famous Henri Le Boeuf Hall is a concert hall boasting impressive acoustics. The Film Museum is housed in the basement. There are 15 societies funded by this museum, including the Europalia society and the Festival of Flanders. These associations guarantee that the Palace is filled with continuous programming. For ticketing and programming information, visit the website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Colossal justice building |
Poelaertplein Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 508 6578 |
King Leopold II was an ambitious man. He was phenomenally rich and wished to turn his capital into the most impressive in the world. He instructed one of his favorite architects, Joseph Poelaert (1811-1879), to build a Palace of Justice on Galgenveld (Gallows Field, where criminals used to be hanged). Constructed during 1866-1883, it was for a long time the world's largest building. Poelaert went insane and died before his gigantic, neo-Gothic building was finished. Tours (lasting 1.5 hours) are free, but reserve two weeks in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Symbol of Belgium Monarchy |
16 Brederodestraat Brussels B-1000 Belgium +32 (0)2551 2020 http://www.monarchie.be/en/vis... |
Located on the opposite side of the parliament building, the National Palace, this magnificent building is home to the Kings of Belgium and symbolizes the flourishing Belgium monarchy. It is comprised of four buildings erected during the 18th Century to host King Guillaume I from the Netherlands. The building was particularly embellished and restored under Leopold II's reign (1835-1909). Now, Queen Paola takes the lead to further valorize it. The works of art adorning the palace include seven pieces of photographer Dirk Braekman, paintings by Marthe Véry and the wonderful ceiling of the Mirror Room decorated by Jan Fabre with more than a million jewel beetle carapaces. You can visit the interior in the summer after the national holiday (July 21st). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Capital city |
Rue de Louvain 13 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 549 81 36 (Informatie voor toeristen) http://www.senate.be/deutsch/i... |
This imposing neoclassical building is part of Belgium's government quarter, situated around Warandepark. Belgian Parliament consists of a Chamber of Representatives of the People and a Senate. Together with the king they form the executive branch of government. Since 1830, the parliament meets in the National Palace, built in 1779 when Maria-Theresia of Austria acceded to the throne. The building has two half-circle shaped meeting-rooms: the green one is reserved for the Chamber of Representatives, the red one for the Senate. Guided visits are possible by telephone appointment and only when no sessions are taking place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Brussels's seafood district |
Place Sainte-Catherine Brussels 1000 Belgium |
Fishermen sailed (and later steamed) into the heart of Brussels, selling their fresh fish at Vismêt (Fish Market). Many of the fishmongers who peddled here stayed, and now this whole neighborhood is teeming with seafood restaurants. Most of these are rather delightful, but try these three first: Jacques (charming, traditional and quite inexpensive), François (top class and fairly expensive) or Medussa (contemporary charm). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A piece of local history |
Boulevard du Midi Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 534 1518 http://www.kmkg-mrah.be/ |
The Porte de Hal is the last remaining piece of the old wall that encircled the city until the 19th century, when the wall was taken down to make way for a much-needed road. The remnant of the ancient wall, which was built in the 14th century, now houses a museum of the city's history and traditions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The oldest mall in Europe |
rue des Bouchers or carrefour de l'Europe Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
The King, Queen and Prince galleries of St. Hubert (which are over 200 years old) house expensive, old-fashioned boutiques selling a variety of accessories including gloves, hats, hand-bags and jewellery. In 1837, King Leopold I instructed the young architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaars to turn Rue Saint-Hubert into an arcade. Mission accomplished, this arcade, divided into the King's, Queen's and Prince's galleries, is now one of the most beautiful in the world. There is a nice restaurant, Taverne du Passage, a cosy coffee shop, Mokafe, an excellent cinema, Arenberg Galeries, and even a newsstand. Chocolate lovers should visit Neuheus (25 Galerie de la Reine) and ice cream fans can indulge at the Häagen Dazs located near the front entrance of the gallery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Brussel's Finest Art Collections |
Parc du Cinquantenaire, 10 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 2 741 72 11 http://www.kmkg-mrah.be/ |
The Royal Museums, as it is collectively known, is made up of various smaller museums including le Musée du Cinquantenaire, Musée des Instruments de Musique, and les Musées d'Extrême-Orient. The largest of the museums, the Musée du Cinquantenaire, houses every type of art (except paintings) from every continent on the globe. This museum, with more than 650,000 pieces alone, could be the only reason for your trip to Brussels! Be sure not to miss the exotic Far East Museum, and the fascinating Museum of Musical Instruments. Truly a mecca for art lovers, history buffs, music enthusiasts, and curious people of all types. Admission: € 5 (general admission) € 4 (student/senior) € 1,50 (children 12-17/handicapped) Children under 12 years receive free admission Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Brussels begins at Town Hall |
Grote Markt Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 |
Enter Brussels' world famous Grand Place and your eyes will immediately fall upon this grandiose building, which serves as the focal point of the square. This spectacular town hall was built by two architects: the left wing by Jacques van Thienen in 1402, the right wing by Jean van Ruysbroeck in 1445-1450. Uniting these efforts is a gothic tower, rising 97m, crowned by a statue of St. Michael, the patron saint of Brussels. Inside are a host of rooms housing art from the 17th and 18th centuries. This building is most beautiful by evening, when artificial light adds a nearly magical dimension to this wonderful town hall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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