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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 |
 Photo: ken wolf |
 Photo: Fred Tesseur |
 Photo: Blowing Puffer Fish |
 Photo: Jan Tielens |
 Photo: Chen Yang |
 Photo: Dietmar Temps  |
 Photo: Cara Kangas |
 Photo: Florian |
 Photo: Terry Wilkins |
 Photo: Mary H |
 Photo: Frans Leys |
 Photo: Static TV Weppie |
 Photo: Gavin Clabaugh |
 Photo: quierotango |
 Photo: karolajnat |
 Photo: Tom Verschooten |
 Photo: Florent |
 Photo: Pierre Duthoit |
 Photo: Zoe Lightfoot |
 Photo: mISHOOO |
 Photo: Marianne Linnekens |
 Photo: toinie |
 Photo: Gary Higginson |
 Photo: Luc De Leeuw |
 Photo: Michele Di Sei |
 Photo: KarLai Cheong |
 Photo: Niklaus Berger |
 Photo: Paul J White |
 Photo: andrefromont/fernandomort |
 How your favorite brew is produced |
10 Grote Markt Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 511 4987 |
In the basement of the majestic Brewers' House on Grand Place, you'll find a small but comprehensive exhibition on the evolution of brewing beer. This building is the only one still inhabited by its original owners. In the 15th century this was Brewers' House. Today, it is the headquarters of CBB, the Confederation of Belgian Brewers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: bente hoilund |
 Photo: Cayetano |
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Relive history once more |
Grand Place Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 279 4350 |
Housed in Maison du Roi, a beautiful 16th century mansion on Grand Place, is this museum dedicated to the history of Brussels. Here one can follow the development of art, politics, economics and social life throughout Brussels' history. Aside from the gorgeous exhibit of paintings by renowned Belgian artist Breughel, one can also visit the amusing display of some 627 of Manneken Pis' costumes. Admission: EUR3; groups of 12 or more EUR1.3. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Holland |
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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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Gallery annex dwelling for artists |
26-28 Rue des Chartreux Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 1469 |
This gallery for young contemporary art is run by the city of Brussels, but it is more than just a gallery. A number of young artists (mainly foreigners on scholarships) actually live in this old house in the bustling neighbourhood near De Beurs/La Bourse. Expositions (sometimes of the inhabitants' work) are generally fresh, a shade wild and impressive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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From cocoa to chocolate |
9-11 Rue de la Tête d'Or, 9/11 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 514 2048 http://www.mucc.be/ |
In a country where the average inhabitant consumes about 8.3kg of chocolate a year, you will probably not be surprised to find a chocolate museum. Located in the corner of Grand Place, this is the place to indulge your curiosities about the history of cocoa and chocolate. From Tuesday to Sunday between 10a and 4:30p there are demonstrations by a chocolate master, as well as an opportunity for you to taste a variety of chocolates. Even better, you can buy some here, too. The museum can be rented out for parties, etc., and there are regular exhibitions held. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tijana the Chocolate Queen |
 Photo: Ross Kirby |
 Photo: Carolyn Hack |
 Photo: Audrey Kuo |
 Photo: Marianne Szeto |
 Photo: Sameer S Gupte |
 Church on Vismêt |
Place Sainte-Catherine Brussels 1000 Belgium |
Taking up most of the Place Sainte-Catherine , Saint Catherine's Church was designed in 1854 by Joseph Poelaert, who also designed Brussels' colossal Palais de Justice. The church still has the tower from the original 17th century church, which was actually part of the town's first fortified enclosure. Services in the chapel are held daily at 8am and in the church on Sunday mornings at 10am. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jelle Druyts |
 Photo: Jon Amato |
 Photo: Veronica Gomez |
 Photo: tenshiemi |
 Photo: Barbara Dunn |
 Photo: Veronica Gomez |
 Photo: Yves L Coupez |
 Photo: Erin Lynch |
 Photo: Vincent Wautier |
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Comic strip museum |
20 Zandstraat 20 Rue des Sables Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 219 1980 http://www.fumetti.org/cbc/cbc... |
Housed in the artistic setting of the Waucquez Warehouses, built in 1906 for a local businessman by Victor Horta, two of Belgium's specialties go hand-in-hand: Art Nouveau and comics. There is a fascinating permanent exhibition featuring comics from more than 650 artists. When WWII ended, many comic artists emerged, most notable was Hergé who was best known for his comic strip, Tintin. The popularity of the comics was stapled into the Belgian culture, becoming the so-called "9th Art". There are also regular temporary exhibitions. In this museum you will find various history, drawings, and three-dimensional recreations that will surely be a fun day out for the whole family. To round out your visit, there is a great comic strip shop, a wonderful café and the largest library of comic strips in the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: towncalledfrank |
 Photo: Eleonora Pantò |
 Photo: Simon Montagu |
 Photo: Katarina Wiberg |
 Photo: Katarina Wiberg |
 Photo: D. Mendaña |
 Photo: Londo Mollari |
 Photo: Jeff Bergan |
 Photo: Anita-Louise Cory |
 Photo: Colin Masterson |
 Photo: Tokyogirl |
 Photo: Christian Kaylor |
 Photo: catastrophegirl |
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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 |
 Photo: Tanukisan |
 Photo: B Ling |
 Photo: Jean-Etienne Poirrier |
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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 |
 Photo: Laura Marie |
 Photo: Becca... |
 Photo: ota dokan |
 Photo: Swillie Swaboeb |
 Photo: Adam Lederer |
 Photo: PJ Ople |
 Photo: Tanukisan |
 Photo: LisaNotLiza |
 Photo: Kati Kulovesi |
 Photo: Suen |
 Photo: Zoltán Jánosi |
 Photo: Retaxis |
 Photo: Brigitte Chanson |
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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 |
 Photo: Steven Erat |
 Photo: Chen Yang |
 Photo: Matt's Adventures In Pics |
 Photo: Kady Cross |
 Photo: Richard De Lancey |
 Photo: Tomás Palmer |
 Photo: Sarah Hall |
 Photo: Thao Nguyen Nguyen |
 Photo: belgiumtugadois.blogspot.com |
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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 |
 Photo: Lee Braverman |
 Photo: Elena Merelo Molina |
 Photo: Mel & John Kots |
 Photo: David M. Smith/KPC |
 Photo: Lesley Trites |
 Photo: Niels Heyvaert |
 Photo: Stompy |
 Photo: Lee Braverman |
 Photo: Gonzalo Rojas |
 Photo: Tim Zunneberg |
 Photo: Pernilla Lindquist |
 Photo: bram_souffreau |
 Photo: Vitor Cunha |
 Photo: marionnetje |
 Photo: Irene Brand |
 Photo: Dirk |
 Photo: Laura Rebreanu |
 Photo: _ |
 Photo: flo21 |
 Photo: laurakgibb |
 Photo: Valerie C. Narte |
 Photo: Shubha Sharma |
 Photo: Shaiful Shahidan |
 Photo: www.watchlooksee.com |
 Photo: Jennifer Spenningsby |
 Photo: Chris Miller |
 Photo: jheringtons |
 Photo: Eugene Moore |
 Photo: Bart van Poll |
 Photo: Heather Hendricks |
 Photo: BrusselsLife.be |
 Photo: Lovely lady with the |
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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 |
 Photo: Simon Laird |
 Photo: B Fenske |
 Photo: Stijn |
 Photo: Yeun Yeun Lim |
 Photo: angelday |
 Photo: Sharon Tseng |
 Photo: Jamie Lantzy |
 Photo: James Burgess |
 Photo: femke.suykens |
 Photo: Oana Dobrinoiu |
 Photo: Stéphane COETSIER |
 Photo: Abi Skipp |
 Photo: Vanhoof |
 Photo: mike.beckley |
 Photo: neilmademedoit |
 Photo: Ram Jambunathan |
 Photo: falcon0125 |
 Photo: Joachim Vastesaeger |
 Photo: Vanhoof |
 Photo: Pieter Good |
 Photo: Sara de Prado |
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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 |
 Photo: Stijn Nieuwendijk |
 Photo: Mel & John Kots |
 Photo: Michel Raj |
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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 |
 Photo: Po Chin Tan |
 Photo: Nate Little |
 Photo: Graham Newson |
 Photo: Eva Hansson, Sweden |
 Photo: spencer0 |
 Photo: Emma Line |
 Photo: Martijn Herrman |
 Photo: Carina Ong Su Yin |
 Photo: Noriko Okumura |
 Photo: Silviu Simbotelecan |
 Photo: ridefrenzy |
 Photo: Easy Skywalker |
 Photo: Andy O'Donnell |
 Photo: Craig Smith |
 Photo: Jay |
 Photo: Eric A. Seiden |
 Photo: Lokhin Tsui |
 Photo: Alvaro Arce |
 Photo: Joanna Barczuk |
 Photo: joywowjoy |
 Photo: tatikprice |
 Photo: Stelian Trandafir |
 Photo: shanshin |
 Photo: Silvia Rossi |
 Photo: skaemporium |
 Photo: Travis J. Sanders |
 Photo: figure1812 |
 Photo: ToUsMiC Place |
 Photo: Tam |
 Photo: Mark Bell |
 Photo: Will Strauss |
 Photo: shue.banana |
 Photo: navigergo |
 Photo: Andre Devezeau |
 Photo: Jean Mottershead |
 Photo: Alexandre Leruth |
 Photo: St.Vaast |
 Photo: NLanja |
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Straight-laced |
12 Rue de la Violette 12 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 213 4450 http://www.brusselsmuseums.be/... |
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Brussels was famous for the production of lace. Housed in a renovated 17th century warehouse, the Museum of Costume and Lace pays tribute to this heritage and to lace as an art form. One-part history and one-part art museum, it is an important stop for any visitor to Brussels. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Currency and history |
10 Wildewoudstraat Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 221 2206 / +32 (0)2 221 5656 http://www.bnb.be/pub/07_00_00... |
This interesting museum, which offers a unique collection of currencies and bank notes, is a must-see if in Brussels. Behind all currencies, coins, and notes hides a very captivating tale. From rare objects used as currency (including shells, animal cogs, and stones) to the most technologically-advances, fraud-proof bank notes: you'll find it here all. The museum boasts such treasures as one of the first european currencies, counterfeit bank notes issued by Hitler, notes from the concentration camps featuring the Start of Davis, and of course the famous euro! Really a must, not only for currency enthusiasts, but for anyone who is captivated by world history. For conducted visits please make an appointment by phone. 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 |
 Photo: Jennifer Johnson |
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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 |
 Photo: Leo Koolhoven |
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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 |
 Photo: Hannah Thompson |
 Photo: T.M. Hagood |
 Photo: Poloelgolio |
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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 |
 Photo: Chiva Congelado |
 Photo: StaneStane |
 Photo: Eelco Kruidenier |
 Photo: StaneStane |
 Photo: Patty |
 Photo: Andrew Savory |
 Photo: terges |
 Photo: Fiona Daly |
 Photo: Frederic della Faill |
 Photo: dacoba |
 Photo: Amaury Henderick |
 Photo: Chris Buckridge |
 Photo: martin werker |
 Photo: Coralie Bole |
 Photo: jean-ferjeux Gruyer |
 Photo: Bartek Szopka |
 Photo: Heather Johnson |
 Photo: ANVRecife |
 Photo: La Marmite en fonte |
 Photo: O. STEVENS - Oless |
 Photo: Guillaume Fougnies |
 Photo: Sandrine |
 Photo: koonyen@yahoo.com |
 Photo: bitonio |
 Photo: fabio ferreira |
 Photo: Adam Bondy |
 Photo: varunvikas |
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Impressive gothic cathedral |
Sint-Goedelevoorplein Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 217 8345 http://www.kathedraalstmichiel... |
This imposing cathedral is the location for Belgium's royal weddings and funerals. Its construction started in the 13th century and was completed two centuries later. Various chapels were added during the 16th and 17th centuries. Visitors to the cathedral are bound to be impressed by its monumental example of Brabant gothic. Outside, two awe-inspiring towers attract attention, while inside it is hard not to admire the intricate stained-glass windows. You can also visit the remnants of the 10th-century Romanesque church, on top of which the cathedral was built. Concerts featuring religious or classical music are regularly held here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dmitriy Kostyuchenko |
 Photo: Gilmar Mattos |
 Photo: Maciej Bukczynski |
 Photo: Mager |
 Photo: Maciej Bukczynski |
 Photo: Dmitry Shmelev |
 Photo: Mark Holtzhausen |
 Photo: Kelly Brown |
 Photo: K. Bosch |
 Photo: Bryn the sin |
 Photo: inisus |
 Photo: Rocío Knipp |
 Photo: Pavel Tcholakov |
 Photo: Scott and Jan Wilson |
 Photo: Emily Purcell |
 Photo: Gary Craig |
 Photo: ManDes |
 Photo: Shaun Coetzee |
 Photo: Kerry Hubers |
 Photo: Belinda Luk |
 Photo: Sam Winter |
 Photo: Crystal Hudgeons |
 Photo: scotteisenphotograph |
 Photo: jayschamberg |
 Photo: the zufall family |
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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 |
 Photo: Rosanne R. Raposo |
 Photo: Pilar Silva |
 Photo: Henry Yamamoto |
 Photo: Enobarbus |
 Photo: Tony Watkin |
 Photo: Victoria R. Calhoon |
 Photo: Frederick Bernas |
 Photo: Trevor Coultart |
 Photo: Steph Tan |
 Photo: Michael40001 |
 Photo: Mark Denovich |
 Photo: Xiaowei Li |
 Photo: surbee |
 Photo: Wim Durang |
 Photo: Geert Schneider |
 Photo: Pete Vincenti |
 Photo: Branislav Bucan |
 Photo: Herr Mathisen |
 Photo: Hugh Meyer |
 Photo: Amelia Baker |
 Photo: Abby Yocom |
 Photo: Ernest Khoo |
 Photo: Jeff Hay |
 Photo: Brian Eeles |
 Photo: afroulas |
 Photo: scottjn75 |
 Photo: Leon Hoffman |
 Photo: Travis Burnett |
 Photo: michelle thong |
 Photo: Braden Ridgway |
 Photo: Kevin Heylman |
 Photo: cagutzwiller |
 Photo: Mel Peatfield |
 Photo: Sarah Doyle |