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 Impressive antiques collection |
10 Jubelpark Brussels 1000 Belgium + 32 (0)2 741 7211 http://www.kmkg-mrah.be/newnl/... |
This enormous museum, part of Brussels's Royal Museums of Art and History, was once the largest in the world. All artistic disciplines, except painting, are represented. The first section displays a collection of ancient Egyptian (one room alone is filled with mummies and sarcophagi), Islamic, Oriental, Greek and Roman art. The second section is dedicated to non-European art, and the third section houses a collection of European decorative arts spanning the 7th to the 17th centuries. Other fascinating collections abound, such as a beautiful collection of glass and ceramics with one room dedicated to Delftware. Some of the display cases were designed by master of Art Nouveau Victor Horta. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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19th century art on a gigantic scale |
62 Rue Vautier Brussels 1050 Belgium +32 (0)2 648 1718 http://www.fine-arts-museum.be... |
This museum is a division of the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts and is, of course, dedicated to the works of Antoine Wiertz (1806-1865). This painter was born in Dinant, studied in Antwerp and in Rome, and only moved to Brussels in the latter part of his life. There, the government built him the gigantic workshop now housing this museum. Wiertz really needed a workshop of this size, because he saw things big. Rubens was his idol, and some of Wiertz's works are 16 metres tall! Antoine Wiertz may not be worthy of more than a footnote in art history, but this is a charming museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wonderful car museum |
11 Parc du Cinquantenaire 11 Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 736 4165 http://www.autoworld.be/ |
This museum is a fairy tale, not just for grown-up boys, but for anyone who ever dreamed of being behind the wheel at the start of a Formula 1 Grand Prix (and winning it easily, of course). The 450 cars on display here are from Ghent industrialist Ghislain Mahy's collection; he has another thousand at home. Not only are the very earliest models presented to be admired, but also the showpieces of Minerva, the Belgian Rolls-Royce of the 30's, and even a limousine owned by J.F. Kennedy. More tranquil minds can dream away in the D'Ieteren Hall, that shows a fine collection of carriages and other equestrian items. Admission: EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maximiliano Corredor |
 Photo: Julien Keutgen |
 Photo: Elisabeth Howson |
 Photo: Maximiliano Corredor |
 Photo: Ian Oosterlinck |
 Photo: Ross Kirby |
 Photo: Ross Kirby |
 Photo: Stefan |
 Photo: Albartus Vrolijk |
 Photo: Richard De La Rosa  |
 Photo: Ivan Brincat |
 Photo: © Dan Grossman, 2006 |
 Photo: sisios |
 Photo: Alan Torrance |
 Photo: Alena Skrabina |
 Photo: Daniel Duce |
 Photo: Alfred Scholten |
 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 |
 Photo: wcities |
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A world of discovery for children |
15 Rue du Bourgmestre Brussels 1050 Belgium +32 (0)2 640 0107 http://www.museedesenfants.be/ |
This wonderful museum is for children aged 4 to 12 and is a must for every parent. The museum's exhibits help them discover their feelings, talents and senses. Professional performers welcome and guide you through the discovery rooms. These tours span two hours and can be enjoyed by both young and old. They are organized around themes from daily life; these change every three years. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art Deco museum |
41 Avenue Leo Errera Brussels 1180 Belgium +32 (0)2 343 4851 http://www.museumvanbuuren.com |
Built in 1929 in art deco style for the Dutch banker and art collector David Van Buuren, this beautiful mansion was turned into a museum in 1973 for fine tapestries, blown glass and paintings by modern and classic masters. The most famous are Breughel's "The Fall of Icarus" and works by Ensor and van Gogh. Contemporary sculpture exhibitions are organized in the garden. For group visits you must make a reservation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Stafford |
 Photo: Karl Stas |
 Photo: Nina Pope |
 Concerts & Catechism |
24 boulevard Saint-Michel Brussels 1040 Belgium +32 (0) 2 739 33 65 http://www.eglisecsm.org/ftp/b... |
The église du collège Saint-Michel is a Jesuit church attached to a school. In addition to religious services and programs, the church also holds concerts frequently. Of special interest is the organ, which is one of the finest in all of Brussels. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Meeting point for foreign heads of state |
Wolstraat Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
Egmont Palace was constructed in the 16th century and totally renovated in the 18th century by the wealthy Arenberg family. The Belgian government welcomes the international heads of government here and organises high-level international meetings. For most of us, this building is well-known due to the amount it is mentioned in news broadcasts. The Palace is not accessible to the public, only the gardens and the neighbouring Egmont parc can be visited. There are a few nice statues and a famous well called The Ladle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Burns |
 Photo: Tobias Weisserth |
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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 |
 Photo: David Guibal |
 Photo: Luther Blissett |
 Photo: Lukas Mezger |
 A triumph for Brussels |
Jubelpark Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 513 8940 (Informatie voor toeristen) |
For the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence in 1880, King Leopold II commissioned the creation of this park and its grandiose triumphal arch. Today, you can visit some of its museums, Autoworld and the Jubelpark Museum, or you can rest on the plush lawn and admire the solemn manor houses. The Great Mosque and the Temple of Human Passions (Victor Horta's first monument) can also be found here. Every year on July 21st, on the occasion of National Festival Day, there is an evening fireworks display. Jubelpark is an ideal spot for everyone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jonathan Clapper |
 Photo: Rafael Garcia-Suarez |
 Photo: Patty |
 Photo: Becca... |
 Photo: Andronikos Babatsikos |
 Photo: lizzlebob |
 Photo: Mark Jones |
 Photo: Christopher Lewis |
 Photo: Matis Rodin |
 Photo: chris haynes |
 Photo: ➨ Redvers |
 Photo: Erik Dupont |
 Photo: Michael Bryan |
 Photo: Hilde Harmsen |
 Photo: seikinsou |
 Photo: Yannick Belanger |
 Photo: S. Rémy C. |
 Photo: kingler |
 Photo: Stéphane Paye |
 Photo: James Stringer |
 Photo: Tomaz Kavcic |
 Photo: Rex McGregor |
 Photo: z4y4ts |
 Photo: Ella Vignisdottir |
 Photo: Patrick Santana |
 Photo: Tobias Weisserth |
 Photo: TRAN Tuan Hoan |
 Photo: alexandra lugagne |
 Photo: Rebecca Spurling |
 Photo: Vincent Tremblay |
 Photo: Emily Fuhrman |
 Photo: _renelle |
 Photo: Samuel Le Morvan |
 Photo: Vincent MAHAUT |
 Photo: Mark B. Abbott |
 Photo: Arco Ardon |
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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 |
 Photo: Jean Behrend |
 Photo: Marco |
 Photo: Lejuste Nicolas |
 Photo: Marco |
 Photo: Rokos Frangos |
 Photo: countries in colors |
 Photo: Alix Kroeger |
 Photo: Marcus Druen |
 Photo: Melaine Lefeuvre |
 Photo: Francoise Lecomte |
 Photo: Laure Wayaffe |
 Photo: jcdeep08 |
 Photo: www.ebru.be |
 Photo: Thierry Hardy |
 Photo: bertrand-FR |
 Photo: claire reay |
 Photo: Jo M. |
 Photo: SpUtNik 23 -RUR und |
 Photo: Marc ANSEL |
 Photo: Vincent Vangoethem |
 Photo: ambra monni |
 Photo: Alice Vandenbroucke |
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Museum of Modern Art |
1-2 Place Royale Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 508 3211 http://www.fine-arts-museum.be/ |
Located on Place Royale, with no less than eight floors underground, this Museum of Modern Art was constructed around a light shaft that allows daylight to filter down. As part of the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts, it houses a selection of works by Belgian modernists such as Marcel Broodthaers, Rik Wouters and 28 pieces by René Magritte. It also includes foreign artists such as Andy Warhol and Marc Chagall. There is a gift shop and cafeteria. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adam Lederer |
 Photo: Adam Lederer |
 Photo: Michael Tomsett |
 Photo: Monami Bhattacharya |
 Photo: Ary from Brussels |
 Photo: Joel Veak |
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Rediscover the natural sciences |
29 Vautierstraat Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 627 4211 http://www.natuurwetenschappen... |
This museum has perhaps the most impressive collection of dinosaurs in the world, including 29 iguanodons discovered by miners in Bernissart. There are exhibitions featuring mammals and fowl, invertebrates (live spiders), sea life and an array of minerals here as part of the Royal Belgian Institute for Natural Sciences. The temporary exhibitions and the museum's architecture are not to go unrecognized. This is a gem for children, large and small. Telephone reservations for groups are advised. Admission (permanent exhibition): Adults EUR4; students, seniors 65+, 6-17 years old and groups (minimum 15) EUR3; disabled, teachers and children 5 and under free; every 1st Wednesday of the month after 1p free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maximiliano Corredor |
 Photo: Luk Brazle |
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Largest musical collection in the world |
2 Hofberg Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 545 0130 http://www.mim.fgov.be/ |
In this magnificent Old England house, one of architect Santenoy's creations, the Museum of Musical Instruments houses the world's largest collection of musical instruments: 7,000 strong. The exhibition displays 1,500 instruments, and visitors receive headphones so they don't have to actually play the ancient instruments to hear them. There is a museum shop and a library open by appointment. The restaurant on the sixth floor offers a breathtaking view of Brussels. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeremy Keith |
 Photo: Sean Thomasson |
 Photo: B Ling |
 Photo: Greg Mills |
 Photo: Celeste Hutchins |
 Photo: Alexander De Block |
 Photo: Veerle Pieters |
 Photo: Cyrus Zachary Hooker |
 Photo: Vicki Hockley |
 Photo: Caroline Wallis |
 Photo: jackie strecker |
 Photo: Tom_G |
 Photo: peachnellba |
 Photo: Chris Riley |
 Photo: Ryan Palmer |
 Photo: willow |
 Photo: n3wjack |
 Photo: Ian Hull |
 Photo: Simon Schoeters |
 Photo: Dan |
 Photo: Erica Coslor |
 Photo: robin hunter |
 Photo: littlevenice |
 Photo: Paul Jones |
 Photo: janey barrow |
 Photo: Peter Y. C. Wu |
 Photo: Emma Jane Foster |
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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 |
 Photo: Fergal Carr |
 Photo: tcs2108 |
 Photo: Simon Mestrovic |
 Photo: Tim |
 Photo: Jose Luis Ogea |
 Photo: Feike Lagerweij |
 Photo: Simon Grierson |
 Photo: Maurice Lymar |
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An organic experience |
29 Vautierstraat Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 627 4211 http://www.naturalsciences.be/ |
This museum explores the natural treasures of our fascinating planet. The ten permanant galleries with themes like Whale Hall, Of Men and Mammoths, North Pole—South Pole, and Insect Hall, allow you to discover the many facets of the world we live in. In addition to the galleries, the museum features several temporary exhibitions. This museum is owned by the Royal Belgian institute, and also serves as a research facility. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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History of the Belgian Dynasty |
7 Place des Palais (Bellevue Fund) Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)70 22 0492 http://www.musbellevue.be/home... |
This royal exhibition is in the House of Bellevue, which used to be an 18th century hotel for wealthy travelers. Situated next to the Royal Palace, this grand building displays a rich collection of memorabilia collected from the Belgian Royal Dynasty. Located throughout two floors, its rooms are still in the original styles of Louis XV, Empire and Napoleon III, with furniture dating from the 18th century. Recently the courtyard was transformed into a delightful winter garden. Audio-visual tours can be organized for groups. Admission: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Millennuim of warfare |
3 Jubelpark Brussels 1000 Belgium +32 (0)2 737 7833 / +32 (0)2 737 7811 http://www.klm-mra.be/ |
The Royal Military Museum houses historical weapons, armr, medals and pennants from around the world. The museum strives to illustrate the evolution of war technology from the Middle Ages onward. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ryan Slobojan |
 Photo: Ryan Slobojan |
 Photo: David Van Bael |
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Unbelievable, but true! |
72-73 Boulevard Anspach Brussels 1040 Belgium +32 (0)2 732 1336 http://www.scientastic.be |
This unusual museum is only a two minute walk from the Grand-Place. Using light, sound, smell and touch, Scientastic takes visitors on a journey of discovery. You will find 80 exciting and interactive hands-on creations. These unique exhibits are based on the themes of entertaining physics, illusions, and the five senses. The kinds of exhibits you will encounter, include: fly at the mirror like a bird; sit down like a fakir; have your picture taken in an impossible "Esher type" box to amaze your friends. Scientastic lets you explore dozens of optical illusions, proving that seeing is believing! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: 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 |