Visiting Brussels in a Weekend
Brussels, a City to Discover
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the administrative capital of Europe, is a beautiful city to explore, offering a rich tapestry of culture, architecture, business districts, and leisure activities.
The city reflects a long historical past, evident in its iconic buildings and the subtle architecture of numerous residential structures. As a European melting pot, Brussels has long welcomed people of diverse origins and languages, who live together harmoniously and have shaped the capital of the Kingdom of Belgium, giving it a unique culture enriched by contributions from near and far.
During a Brussels weekend, let yourself be surprised by the gentle lifestyle of a cosmopolitan and attentive population. Visit the city's emblematic places and experience the rhythm of the European capital.
Discover the Grand Place, the Historic Heart of Brussels
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Place of Brussels was considered by Victor Hugo as one of the most beautiful squares in the world. As the central square of the Belgian capital, its ornamental richness has earned it international renown. This square is also steeped in history, where architectural beauty competes with cultural significance.
Architecture and History of the Grand Place
Destroyed multiple times by wars, primarily by French troops in 1695 and during the French Revolution, the Grand Place of Brussels showcases a blend of old and new architecture, mostly restored from the 19th century onwards when its beauty was rediscovered. This restoration, spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries, gives it a unity that ensures its true harmony.
For instance, the "Maison du Roi" is a neo-Gothic building inspired by the original structure that was in poor condition. The house known as "L'Étoile," located to the left of the Town Hall, was rebuilt after being demolished to widen the street. Many religious decorative elements that once adorned the square have been replaced by political motifs, but overall, the square has retained its original layout and boundaries dating back to the classical era, themselves rooted in a much older medieval setting.
Key Events of the Grand Place
During the Renaissance, the Grand Place witnessed several somber events. In 1523, two Protestants were burned at the stake there after being condemned by the Inquisition. Four decades later, two counts who presented the people's grievances to Philip II of Spain, son of Charles V and sovereign of the Netherlands, were beheaded there. This event triggered the revolt of the Spanish Netherlands against the sovereign.
Later, French troops under Marshal de Villeroy destroyed most of the houses on the square during the bombardment of August 1695, part of the Nine Years' War. By the end of the battle, only the facade and tower of the Town Hall and a few stone walls remained standing.
Although rebuilt, the square was again damaged by French troops during the Revolution. Thus, in the first half of the 19th century, the square existed without statues and gilding, a sleeping beauty awaiting rediscovery and restoration under the impetus of Mayor Charles Buls.9-hotel-central-brussels.be
The Royal Square and Its Museums: A Journey Through Time
The main Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are located around the Royal Square and are easily accessible by public transport.
Designed and built in the late 18th century, this neoclassical square is rectangular and symmetrical. It can be accessed via Namur Street, Royal Street, Regent Street, or Museum Street.
As the site of the former castle and seat of power of the Dukes of Brabant, the Royal Square was strategically built on one of the highest hills overlooking the Senne River. Today, numerous museums surround it, offering tourists and walkers a fabulous journey through time.
The Musical Instruments Museum
The Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels houses the world's largest non-specialized collection of musical instruments. Only a quarter of its rich collection of over eight thousand instruments is displayed in the galleries. This museum also serves as the fourth department of the Royal Museums of Art and History of Brussels.9-hotel-central-brussels.be
Founded in 1877 from a private collection by Victor-Charles Mahillon, its original purpose was to familiarize students with musical instruments.
Housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building, the museum now highlights all types of musical instruments, both ancient and modern, spread over four floors with unique and distinctive lighting. Visitors can wander through its aisles to the sounds of various musical instruments, traveling through time and space simultaneously.
Guided tours are available, and thematic temporary exhibitions offer different perspectives on music. A rich journey into the heart of the Belgian capital.
The Magritte Museum for Art Lovers
Located on the Royal Square, the Magritte Museum houses the world's largest collection of works by the Belgian surrealist artist. Paintings, drawings, sculptures, advertising posters, photographs, films, musical scores—there's something for everyone, with regularly changing displays attracting over 300,000 visitors from around the world each year. A must-visit if you love art and culture!
Visit to the Royal Palace
As the administrative residence and workplace of the King, the Royal Palace of Brussels traditionally opens its doors to the public every summer after the National Day on July 21st until early September. While, exceptionally, this will not be the case in the summer of 2024 due to renovation work, it is usually a highly anticipated visit for both visitors and Belgians.
Indeed, the honor staircase and vestibule designed by King Leopold II, the Great Antechamber from the early 19th century, the Empire Room, the Small and Large White Salons, the Venice Staircase, the Goya Salon, the Coburg Salon, the Louis XVI Salon... are all architectural and decorative gems that delight the eye and transport visitors through different eras and styles. A journey through time and history that is particularly appreciated.
