Brussels’ Sunday Shopping
De Brouckère
Bruxelles−Brussel Bourse - Beurs
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Parc−Park
Bruxelles-Central−Brussel-Centraal
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Anneessens
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Royale−Koning
Anderlecht
Bruxelles-Chapelle−Brussel Kapellekerk
D Lemonnier
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Sablon−Zavel
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Gare du Midi−Zuidstation Brussels Midi
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Palais−Paleizen
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Louise−Louiza Porte de Hal−Hallepoort
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Parvis de Saint-Gilles Sint-Gillis Voorplein
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Saint-Gilles Sint-Gillis Barrièrre−Bareel
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Parc de Forest Park van Vorst
Poelaert
Horta
brussels’ sunday shopping FR | pageS 08-113
NL | pagina 116-221
EN | pageS 224-329
Carte générale du parcours
Algemene kaart van het parcours
General map of the trail
Étapes du parcours
Haltes van het parcours
Steps on the trail
A > Z A B
Marché du Midi
Zuidmarkt
Midi market
Rues d’Angleterre, de l’Argonne & alentours
Engelandstraat, Argonnestraat en omgeving
Rues d’Angleterre, de l’Argonne & surroundings
C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Place Victor Horta & Av. Fonsny
Victor Hortaplein en Fonsnylaan Place Victor Horta & Av. Fonsny
Square de l’Aviation
Luchtvaartsquare
Square de l’Aviation
Avenue de Stalingrad
Stalingradlaan
Avenue de Stalingrad
Place Rouppe
Rouppeplein
Place Rouppe
Places Anneessens & Fontainas
Anneessensplein en Fontainas
Places Anneessens & Fontainas
Le quartier Saint-Géry
Sint-Gorikswijk
Saint-Géry quarter
Le quartier Saint-Jacques
Sint-Jacobswijk
Saint-Jacques quarter
Manneken Pis & rue de l’Étuve
Manneken Pis en de Stoofstraat Manneken Pis & rue de l’Étuve
Grand-Place & alentours
Grote Markt en omgeving
Grand-Place & surroundings
Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés Oud Korenhuis
Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Sint-Hubertusgalerijen
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Place "Agora"
"Agora"-Plein
Place "Agora"
Mont des Arts
Kunstberg
Mont des Arts
Place Royale
Koningsplein
Place Royale
Le quartier du Sablon
Zavelwijk
Sablon quarter
Palais de Justice & alentours
Justitiepaleis en omgeving
Law Courts & surroundings
Le quartier des Marolles
Marollenwijk
Marolles quarter
Porte de Hal
Hallepoort
Porte de Hal (Hal Gate)
Av. Jean Volders & alentours
Jean Volderslaan en omgeving Av. Jean Volders & surroundings
L'Église de Saint-Gilles
De Sint-Gilliskerk
Saint-Gilles church
Parvis & alentours
Het Voorplein en omgeving
Parvis & surroundings
Barrière & alentours
De Bareel en omgeving
Barrière & surroundings
Rue du Fort
Fortstraat
Rue du Fort
Place Bethléem
Betlehemplein
Place Bethléem
Brussels’ Sunday Shopping FR|mode d'emploi De nombreux quartiers commerçants, tels la Grand-Place, les Marolles, Saint-Géry, le centre de Saint-Gilles ou le quartier situé autour de la gare du Midi, ouvrent également leurs portes le dimanche. Antiquités, brocantes, fruits et légumes, prêt-à-porter, produits artisanaux d’ici et d’ailleurs… Venez découvrir, grâce au Brussels’ Sunday Shopping, les atouts et spécificités de Bruxelles, au gré de ses rues commerçantes et hauts lieux touristiques, dans une ambiance chaleureuse et conviviale.
Comment utiliser au mieux ce parcours? Pour chaque quartier commerçant présent dans ce livret, vous trouverez une brève présentation, une carte détaillée, un itinéraire conseillé et diverses haltes incontournables (de A à Z) réparties selon différentes thématiques : Marché Horeca Commerce Architecture, Monument & Sculpture Parc Culture, Art & Musée Bande dessinée Un petit rabat reprenant les thématiques proposées vous accompagnera tout au long de vos pérégrinations. Bonne balade!
NL|Handleiding
Talrijke handelswijken zoals de Grote Markt, de Marollen, Sint-Goriks, het centrum van Sint-Gillis en de wijk rond het Zuidstation openen ook ‘s zondags de deuren. Antiek, rommelmarkt, fruit en groenten, prêt-à-porter, artisanale producten van hier en elders… Dankzij Brussels’ Sunday Shopping ontdekt u in een hartverwarmende sfeer alle troeven en bijzonderheden van de hoofdstad. Het uitgestippelde parcours leidt langs handelsstraten en toeristische trekpleisters.
EN|User guide Hoe gebruikt u dit parcours? Voor elke handelswijk in deze brochure vindt u een korte presentatie, een gedetailleerde kaart, een aangewezen route en de niet te missen haltes (van A tot Z), ingedeeld volgens thema: Markt Horeca Handel Architectuur, Monument & Beeldhouwwerk Park Cultuur, Kunst & Museum Strip
Many commercial quarters like the Grand-Place, the Marolles, Saint-Géry, the centre of Saint-Gilles and the area around the Midi Station also open their doors at Sundays. Antiques, second hand stuff, fruits and vegetables, prêt-à-porter, traditional products from all over the world… Thanks to Brussels’ Sunday Shopping you’ll discover, in a heartwarming atmosphere, the advantages and specialties of the capital. The suggested tour leads along commercial streets and tourist highlights.
How to use this brochure? Every commercial quarter in this brochure is shortly presented. Furthermore you will find a detailed map, a suggested route and an overview of important stops (from A to Z), classified by different themes: Market Horeca Commerce Architecture, Monument & Sculpture Park Culture, Art & Museum Comic
Een kleine leeswijzer met de gekleurde thema’s begeleidt u tijdens uw omzwervingen.
A marker indicating the coloured themes accompanies you during your discoveries.
Prettige wandeling!
Enjoy the tour!
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FR
NL
EN — 223
the MIDI
the gateway to the capital Dominated by the highest tower in the country, the Midi tower, the Midi quarter extends over three municipalities: Saint-Gilles, Anderlecht and Brussels City.
EN | THE MIDI — intro
The presence of the country’s largest railway station through which more than 100,000 passengers pass each day, undoubtly has an influence on economic development in the area around it. It is the only stop for highspeed trains in Brussels. This link with other major European stations makes it internationally important. For many visitors it is also the gateway to the capital, just 1 hour and 57 minutes from London and 1 hour and 22 minutes from Paris. Coming out of the station, two parallel main roads lead into the city centre: Boulevard Lemonnier and Avenue de Stalingrad. The first, a specialist street for computer shops, leads past the Palais du Midi, a huge sports and shopping complex 180 metres long and 63 metres wide with a classic facade, into Place Anneessens, renowned among other things for its eclectic mix of quality second hand bookshops. The second road, redeveloped in 2006 with the striking La Pasionaria, an urban megaphone by sculptor Emilio Lopez, at one end, has a vast central walkway, the Allée Rosa Luxembourg, which ends at Place
Rouppe. This square is known particularly for its quality cafés, bars and restaurants. The Square de l’Aviation, facing Boulevard Lemonnier, is surrounded by Art Nouveau facades. Here you’ll find the famous statue of Pierrot and the trendy and luxurious hotel BeManos***** at only a few steps from the Midi Station. In Saint-Gilles, Place Horta is developing into a pleasant environment offering high quality restaurants and many cafés with evocative names such as “La Table du Midi”, “Le comptoir des Salades” and “Midi Station” (Lounge Bar and Cigar Club). The city’s oldest Greek restaurants are to be found in rue d’Argonne, around the piano maker to the royal family. Finally, every Sunday morning, the Midi quarter plays host to the Midi market, Europe’s second largest market after the Ventimiglia market (Italia).
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Porte d'Anderlecht−Anderlechtsepoort
G Anneessens
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Anderlecht
Bruxelles-Chapel
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D Lemonnier
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Gare du Midi−Zuidstation Brussels Midi
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Porte de Hal−Hallepoort
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Hôtel d
map of the quarter
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The trail concerns:
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O• The Midi quarter,
• Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, P • The Mont des Arts, • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center.
lle−Brussel Kapellekerk
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Steps on the trail :
> G Petit Sablon−KleineAZavel A B
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des Monnaies−Munthof
C D E F G
Poelaert
Midi market Rues d’Angleterre, de l’Argonne & surroundings Porte de Namur−Naamsepoort Place Victor Horta & Av. Fonsny Square de l’Aviation Avenue de Stalingrad Place Rouppe Places Anneessens & Fontainas
Louise−Louiza
Stéphanie−Stefania
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A
EN | THE MIDI — a
Midi Market
Midi Market Every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. the largest market in Europe (after the Ventimiglia market (Italia)) takes place here. The market has more than 450 stalls selling food and clothing. It is held close to the Gare du Midi, the international gateway to the capital. Boulevard de la Constitution & Esplanade de l’Europe - 1060 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — B
RueS d’Angleterre, de l’Argonne & surroundings
Rue d'Angleterre and rue de l'Argonne are located just opposite the Midi market. Greek restaurants in the rue de l’Argonne This street is where the oldest Greek restaurants in Brussels can be found.
Ibis Hotel art windows The Ibis Hotel at the Gare du Midi has about a dozen art works on display in its windows along the rue d’Angleterre. These works of art are on show so people can discover the work of artists from Saint-Gilles. Rue d’Angleterre 2 à 20 - 1060 Brussels.
Rue d'Argonne - 1060 Brussels.
Cartoon mural at the École Sainte Marie An exploration of the 9th art form by Blake and Mortimer using work by students and the neighbours of the 109. This was the idea put to two classes of leavers at the École Sainte-Marie, who realised this wall painting in 2009. Rue Émile Féron 9 - 1060 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — c
Place Victor Horta
Place Victor Horta is a lively social and commercial hub very close to the Gare du Midi. Café and restaurant pool Numerous brasseries and restaurants contribute to the liveliness of the square. Midi Station, opened in 2009, is emblematic of the area, a leading Brussels venue for eating, doing business or just meeting for a drink and a chat at any time of the day or night, seven days a week. Look up and see the stars through the glass pyramid roof which provides these magical premises with natural light. Some of the restaurants in the Gare du Midi commercial centre are also open on Sundays, along the edge of place Victor Horta.
Bust of Paul-Henri Spaak Memorial to the founding father of the European Union just at the entrance to the station. Paul-Henri Spaak was also a local councillor and major of the municipality of SaintGilles in 1953. The monument was executed from the work by the sculptor Oscar Nemon. Statue of Tintin and Snowy Building of the comic book publishing house Dargaud Lombard. Giant sign including a statue of Tintin and Snowy, the famous cartoon characters from the pen of Hergé, which has been on the roof of the publishing house since 1958. Close to Place Horta: 7 Avenue Paul-Henri Spaak - 1060 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — c
Avenue Fonsny Pop Art Avenue Fonsny The colourful Pop Art-typography of designer Anna Touvron will invade the bridges of the Avenue Fonsny and the Place de la Constitution.
Tranches de vie – rue Couverte Exposition ‘slices of life’ showing travellers transiting the rue Couverte. Rue Couverte – 1060 Brussels.
Avenue Fonsny – 1060 Brussels.
Cartoon mural This large mural (by Johan de Moor) shows around fifty comic book heroes from Editions du Lombard. Avenue Fonsny 47 – 1060 Brussels.
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D
EN | THE MIDI — d
Square de l’Aviation
The pedestrian Square de l’Aviation is bursting with history and is surrounded by Art Nouveau facades, just on the edge of the Brussels City municipality. Travellers’ monument - le Pierrot Square de l’Aviation is full of history. He’s also home to the Pierrot Forain. He was erected to the glory of all the members of the travelling world (fair stallholders, circus performers, etc.) who died for their countries in the two world wars.
Former headquarters of the Prévoyance Sociale Recently restored by the Buildings Authority, the former headquarters of the Prévoyance Sociale (listed in 1993) now houses the “War and Contemporary Society” research and documentation centre, a Belgian scientific institution, and the offices and archives of the Belgian War Victims Service. The building was built in 1911 by architect Richard Pringiers (18691937), who worked with Victor Horta. 29-31 Square de l’Aviation - 1070 Brussels.
Square de l’Aviation - 1070 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — e
Avenue de Stalingrad Avenue de Stalingrad Designed for pedestrians, a wide central walkway named the “Allée Rosa Luxembourg” links the Gare du Midi with place Rouppe along avenue de Stalingrad. The start of this “rambla” (at the station end) is dominated by the “Pasionaria”, a work by the artist Emilio Lopez. This 4 metre long megaphone accessible via a small set of concrete steps, invites passers by to broadcast a message or express an idea. It establishes a direct link between individuals and the public space around them.
Palais du Midi The work of Wynand Janssens, the Palais du Midi was built between 1875 and 1880 to increase commercial activity in the centre. Originally a covered market, in the 1940s and 1950s it became the “Brussels’ Basketball-temple”. After extensive renovation in the 1980s, it reopened in 1984 as a sports complex comprising a 1850 seat sports hall as well as halls for gymnastics, martial arts, etc… Rue Roger Van der Weyden 3 1000 Brussels.
Avenue de Stalingrad (& Allée Rosa Luxembourg) 1000 Brussels.
Typical businesses The Avenue de Stalingrad offers a range of high quality ethnic businesses such as tearooms, restaurants and snack bars. Enjoy the holiday atmosphere, especially during the summer months. Avenue de Stalingrad – (& Allée Rosa Luxembourg) – 1000 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — f
Place Rouppe Eat and Drink Nicolas Jean Rouppe, major of Brussels from 1830 to 1838, was one of the people behind the establishment of the Free University of Brussels. Situated in the most densely populated area of the city centre, place Rouppe offers a tempting range of excellent restaurants and cafés. The fountain topped by an allegory of the City of Brussels constitutes its centre. Place Rouppe - 1000 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — g
Place Anneessens Place Anneessens Situated between the Bourse and the Gare du Midi, place Anneessens was the site of the “old market” until the covering of the Senne-river in 1871, after which the market was transferred to place du Jeu de Balle in 1873. It is overlooked by the buildings of the Institut Lucien Cooremans and the Haute Ecole Francisco Ferrer.
Book district The streets surrounding Place Anneessens are filled with a variety of second hand bookshops. Over here you will find anything: children’s books, historical novels, travel & language guides… Enjoy the hunt!
Place Anneessens - 1000 Brussels.
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EN | THE MIDI — g
place fontainas Place Fontainas Originally named “Petite Ile” (the Senne split into two separate branches just here, rejoining slightly further on), place Fontainas, named after Brussels major André-Napoléon Fontainas, was built during the covering of the Senne in 1871. The gateway to the Saint-Jacques quarter, along with its neighbour place Anneessens it constitutes an important link between place De Brouckère and the Gare du Midi.
Mythical café Ever since the opening end 2009, café Moeder Lambic doesn’t stop to impress and amaze. This bar is a feast for your senses thanks to the great variety of beers and the comfortable, trendy interior. Before you enter, have a good look at the restored porch. Definitely worth a visit!
Place Fontainas - 1000 Brussels.
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saintgEry meeting everyone
This quarter, well known for its bars and cafĂŠs, is one of the most trendy areas of the capital.
De Brouckère
Map of the quarter
The trail concerns:
Bourse - Beurs
H
K
M
Step on the trail :
I
H
J
G
• The Midi quarter, • Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, • The Mont des Arts, • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center.
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Bruxelles-Central−Brussel-Ce Saint-Géry N quarter
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eessens
O
F
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Bruxelles-Chapelle−Brussel Kapellekerk
Q Sablon−Zavel
S — 247
P
H
en | saint-géry — h
saint-géry quarter The "Halles Saint-Géry" They constitute the heart of quarter. It’s an ancient marketplace in Flemish neo-renaissance style and was constructed in 1881 by architect A. Vanderheggen. The “Halles”, protected since 1987, functions today as an information centre and an exposition hall honouring Brussels heritage. Cartoon market Every first Sunday of the month, there is a cartoon market. Worth a visit! Place Saint-Géry 23 - 1000 Brussels.
Trendy bars Place Saint-Géry is home to a wide range of colourful bars, restaurants and sidewalk cafés. Alone or in company, enjoy one of the many Belgian or Asian specialities, while meeting some interesting people.
Bourse Magnificent building in an eclectic style, a mixture of neo-renaissance and Second Empire. “La Bourse” was constructed between 1868 and 1873 by the architect Léon-Pierre Suys during the creation of the central boulevards. Two lions, incarnating the rise and the fall, are guarding the entrance. Today it’s a place of exchange and encounter where tourists and everyone interested can enjoy guided tours and where numerous rooms and halls are available to the public for seminars and banquets. Place de la Bourse - 1000 Brussels.
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saintjacques a distinct personality
Famous for its trendy, specialist shops, this quarter offers the perfect combination of culture, shopping, restaurants and cafÊs. Just a stone’s throw from the hustle of the Grand-Place, it offers shoppers a calm and pleasant environment in which to browse.
De Brouckère
Map of the quarter
The trail concerns: • The Midi quarter, • Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, • The Mont des Arts, • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center.
Bourse - Beurs
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K I
Bruxelles-Central−Brussel
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J
G
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Step on the trail :
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Saint-Jacques quarter
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nneessens
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Bruxelles-Chapelle−Brussel Kapellekerk
Q Sablon−Zavel
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en | Saint-Jacques — i
Saint-Jacques quarter The Church of Notre-Dame de Bon Secours So named because of the discovery in 1625 of a statue of the virgin with miraculous powers, this church in the Flemish baroque style was built by architect Jean Cortvrindt at the end of the 17th century, on the site of the old chapel of the Saint-Jacques hospital. Restored many times. Original businesses
Scallops (Les coquilles Saint-Jacques) A symbol of the pilgrimage of Saint James of Compostela, these scallops point the way to the tomb of the Apostle James the Elder, brother of John the Evangelist. Forty-eight bronze scallops distributed around the historic centre of the City of Brussels guide pilgrims to the Porte de Hal and beyond.
The Church of Notre-Dame de Bon Secours is surrounded by original, high quality businesses: sunny pavement cafés, exotic restaurants, men’s and women’s clothes shops, lingerie and accessories for women, second hand bookshops, etc. There’s something to awaken all your senses in these attractive and charming boutiques. Rue du Marché au Charbon - 1000 Brussels.
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the GrandPlace Squares and passages
The Grand-Place, at the heart of Brussels, is the country’s main tourist attraction. Listed since 1998 as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is surrounded by 34 different buildings including the City Hall, the Maison du Roi and the Maison des Brasseurs. Lots of festive and cultural events are organised here each year: the Brussels Jazz Marathon, the Ommegang, the Meyboom, the Marathon de Bruxelles, the Plaisirs d’Hiver, etc.
en | the Grand-Place — intro
The Manneken Pis
L’ilot Sacré
On the corner of rue de l’Étuve and rue du Chêne stands one of the principal gems of Brussels folklore: the Manneken Pis. A bronze statue standing 60 cm high, it has become a figure of legend, embodying the“zwanze”or art of living and particular brand of humour of Brussels’ popular tradition. Its wardrobe currently contains more than 800 outfits of figures as diverse as Baden Powell, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Elvis Presley, Spirou and Christopher Columbus, and is on display in the City Museum.
Discover the architectural heritage of the 17th and 18th centuries through the strotjes (streets) of old Brussels! They offer ample opportunity to discover and enjoy a lively quarter with a warm, friendly atmosphere, in which the Théâtre des Marionnettes de Toone is the main attraction.
The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert There are many passages and galleries in the area around the Grand-Place, and the most famous of these are the Galeries Saint-Hubert. Opened in 1847, they exists in three sections (Galerie de la Reine, Galerie du Roi and Galerie des Princes) and house among other things a cinema and a theatre. — 255
Sainte-Catherine−Sint-Katelijne
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De Brouckère
Bourse - Beurs
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K I
Bruxelles-Central−Brussel-C
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Anneessens
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Bruxelles-Chapelle−Brussel Kapellekerk
Q Sablon−Zavel
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Map of the quarter
The trail concerns: • The Midi quarter, • Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, • The Mont des Arts, • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center. Steps on the trail : Parc−Park
J > N
Centraal
Arts-Loi − Kunst-Wet Rue de l’Étuve J
K L M N
Parc de Bruxelles Park van Brussel Palais−Paleizen
Grand-Place & surroundings Place de la vieille Halle aux Blés Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Place Agora
P
Royale−Koning
Trône − Troon
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J
en | the Grand-Place — j
Manneken Pis and rue de l’Étuve Manneken Pis Also known as Petit Julien, the Manneken Pis is a bronze statue standing 60 centimetres high of a small boy peeing. It is a replica of the original, which is kept in the Maison du Roi. His wardrobe, on display in the City Museum, currently consists of more than 800 outfits!
Rue de l’Étuve This tiny street typical of Brussels links the Manneken Pis with the Grand-Place. Brussels waffles, assortments of beer and Belgian chocolates, Manneken Pis figurines and souvenirs of all kinds are on sale here! Rue de l’Étuve - 1000 Brussels.
At the junction of the “rue de l’Étuve” and the “rue du Chêne” - 1000 Brussels.
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en | the Grand-Place — k
Grand-Place and surroundings Grand-Place
City Museum
Renowned for its architectural wealth, the Grand-Place has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998. The City Hall built in several stages between 1402 and 1455, the Maison du Roi, the old Bread Hall now housing the City Museum and the surrounding buildings were rebuilt in stone by the various guilds after the bombardment of 1695.
The art and history of Brussels are celebrated at the Maison du Roi : from the middle ages to the present day, find out everything you want to know about Brussels, its arts and crafts (painting, tapestry, porcelain, silverware, etc.), its folklore (including the famous wardrobe of the Manneken Pis), its development as a city (plans, models, photos, etc.) and its inhabitants!
Grand-Place -1000 Brussels.
Grand-Place - 1000 Brussels. Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Attractive businesses Business around the Grand-Place is particularly flourishing: eclectic taverns jostle with high-class restaurants. Belgian specialities such as lace and chocolate are also given pride of place. Grand-Place -1000 Brussels.
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en | the Grand-Place — k
Grand-Place and surroundings Museum of Costume and Lace This museum opened in 1977 and houses a rich collection of historical and contemporary costumes, embroidery and original accessories, etc. on show in themed exhibitions. Rue de la Violette 12 - 1000 Brussels. Monday to Friday (except Wednesdays), 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
t’Serclaes In 1356, Everard t’Serclaes took command of the Brussels patriots and drove the troops of the Count of Flanders out of the city. Though liberator of Brussels and five times deputy mayor of the city, he was attacked by henchmen of his enemy the lord of the Castle of Gaasbeek, who cut off his tongue. He died in 1388 in the Maison de l’Étoile on the Grand-Place. A relief in his memory was placed on one of its walls in 1899. Since 1926, the legend has gained ground that stroking the hand of this statue brings luck. Why not find out for yourself… Rue Charles Buls - 1000 Brussels.
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en | the Grand-Place — k
Grand-Place and surroundings Museum of Chocolate and Cocoa The Museum of Chocolate and Cocoa is a must for chocaholics, offering a unique tour of the aromas and flavours of Belgian chocolate. From the Aztec origins of chocolate to the different production and manufacturing techniques, through a demonstration by a master chocolatier, chocolate sculptures and tastings, this is a feast for the senses. Rue de la Tête d’Or 9/11 - 1000 Brussels. Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.
leads to the famous Théâtre des Marionnettes de Toone (a café, theatre and museum). Rue des Bouchers - 1000 Brussels.
Jeanneke Pis This bronze statue approximately 50 centimetres tall is the female counterpart of the Manneken Pis. Commissioned by a shopkeeper in the Ilot Sacré, it was unveiled in 1987. Impasse de la Fidélité - 1000 Brussels.
Ilot Sacré
To protect, save and preserve the old quarters in the centre of Brussels, in 1960 the municipal council passed a regulation to create a conservation area. The regulation was ratified a few months later by a royal order, which officially gave birth to the Ilot Sacré. It consists of numerous roads and alleys including rue des Bouchers, famous for its seafood restaurants and Petite rue des Bouchers which — 265
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en | the Grand-Place — l
Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés Eat and Drink A short distance from the Grand-Place, place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés offers passers-by a genuine opportunity for relaxation thanks to its many attractive pavement cafés. Traditional or spicy, classic or exotic cuisine: give into temptation! Then enjoy a moment of relaxation on the fabulous and very comfortable Lucia’s seat. Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés 1000 Brussels.
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en | the Grand-Place — M
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Opened in 1847, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert designed by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar form a covered shopping area linking rue du Marché aux Herbes with rue d’Arenberg. The galleries outclass by far other similar constructions because of their length (they cover 200 metres), their height (eight metres!) and their lightness (the whole length of the galleries is roofed with glass). Today they accommodate many luxury boutiques offering a diverse range of refined products: chocolate, lace, accessories, etc.
Discover the city Come and discover all of Brussels in fifteen inventive scenes, in the sumptuous underground passages of Galeries Saint-Hubert. Let yourself be guided through different themed settings (lifestyle and nature, culture and events, etc.) to some surprising and unexpected places! Galerie de la Reine 17 - 1000 Brussels. Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert 1000 Brussels.
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en | the Grand-Place — N
Place “Agora” Place “Agora” Close to the Grand-Place, this area with no particular name came into being when the Nord-Midi junction was built in the mid-20th century. Redeveloped during the 1980s and dominated by the Church of the Madeleine, it is currently home to a craft market and offers direct access to the central station.
Varied businesses The Place Agora is surrounded by ice-cream makers, chocolate shops and eat & drink businesses. Amateurs of leather, jewellery and clothing are awaited in the nearby galeries Agora. Difficult choosing ahead!
At the crossroads between: rue Marché aux Herbes & rue de l’Infante Isabelle & rue de la Montagne 1000 Brussels.
Crafts market Are you looking for rare, high quality objects? You’ll find them at the arts and crafts market at the Place Agora. Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holiday, from 10 a.m.until 8 p.m. At the crossroads between: rue du Marché aux Herbes, rue de l’Infante Isabelle & rue de la Montagne 1000 Brussels.
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Place “Agora” Square de la Putterie This small park between rue de la Madeleine (behind the church with the same name) and rue de l’Infante Isabelle links place “Agora” with the Mont des Arts. Striking for its gigantic circular bench in the shape of a cone (the work of Frenchman Laurent Bloedt, entitled “Work in progress”), it also has an underground entrance to the central station and provides direct and rather pleasant access to place de l’Albertine.
Place de l’Albertine At the foot of the steps up to Mont des Arts, this square is actually a semi-circle the centre of which is dominated by a statue of Queen Elisabeth. The statue of the Queen, to whom we owe the prestigious international music competition, faces a statue of her husband on horseback in the Mont des Arts gardens. Place de l’Albertine - 1000 Brussels.
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mont des arts Let yourself be guided
At the top of the “pentagon�, the Mont des Arts quarter offers a high quality cultural and artistic experience through its many museums, historic monuments and cultural venues.
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The Mont des Arts The gardens with their water features and children’s play areas form the heart of this quarter, around which a multitude of museums and institutions are gathered : the Albert I Royal Library, the Square Brussels Meeting Centre, the Royal Art Galleries of Belgium, the Museum of Musical Instruments, BOZAR (designed by Victor Horta) and Cinematek. The top of the Coudenberg, near the fountain and Calder mobile, gives one of the best panoramas of the city centre. The Place Royale This square, where the splendour and atmosphere of the 18th century still are very much present, is home to the following buildings assembled around a statue of Godefroy de Bouillon: the BELvue Museum about
the history of Belgium; the Constitutional Court and Bruxelles Info Place (BIP), a tourist information centre. The underground passages and fabulous state room (Aula Magna) of the former Palais du Coudenberg are also worth a detour. A little further on, the Parc de Bruxelles opposite the Palais Royal is dressed up in all its finery: water features, a bandstand, an octagonal pond, a garden of statues, etc. Plenty for young and old alike to enjoy! The Galerie Ravenstein Built at the time of Expo 58, this links the business quarters with the central station, designed by Victor Horta.
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M
Parc−Park
Bruxelles-Central−Brussel-Centraal
A
N Parc de Bruxelles Park van Brussel
L
Palais−Paleizen
O P Royale−Koning
erk
Q
Trône − Troon
Sablon−Zavel
Porte de Namur − Naamsepoort
Poelaert
Louise−Louiza
Arts-Loi − Kunst-Wet
map of the quarter
The trail concerns: • The Midi quarter, • Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, • The Mont des Arts, • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center. Steps on the trail : O > P O P
Mont des Arts Place Royale
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Mont des Arts Specialist shops The Mont des Arts (Mountain of Arts) honours its name. Not only there’s a spectacular cultural offer (library, gardens, conference center, museums…), you’ll also find a wide variety of specialist shops selling music scores, paintings, photographs, artistic guides… Reputed chocolate makers, shops with high quality natural products, and delicious restaurants and museum-brasseries will take care of your inner needs.
Alexander Calder for Expo 58. This point offers an impressive view of the city. Albert I Royal Library Opened to the public in 1839, this national scientific library contains more than 6 million works on 17 floors. Among other things, it houses works published in Belgium and works published abroad by Belgian authors (the legal deposit).
The Mont des Arts gardens Designed by landscape architect René Péchère and situated in front of the Square-Brussels Meeting Centre, these gardens, with as their centrepiece a statue of Albert I on horseback, consist of several avenues of trees with, on one side, the Albert I Royal Library and on the other, children’s playgrounds and water features; at the top of the flights of steps is a fountain with a mobile designed by
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Mont des Arts Square - Brussels Meeting Centre Opened in September 2009, the former conference centre has been fully renovated and now has more than 10.000 m2 of modular rooms, including 3 auditoriums, 20 conference rooms and a 4.000 m2 exhibition hall. The top floor offers stunning views over Brussels, while at the point of entry a huge glass cube hosts people, events and animations.
The Mont des Arts carillon Installed for Expo 58, this clock with its “jacquemart” (a little man who strikes the hours with a hammer) contains twelve figurines of wellknown figures from Brussels history and folklore. They revolve on the spot to the sound of the 24 bells of the carillon and mark the hours on a large star. Mont des Arts – Opposite of Square - Brussels Meeting Centre.
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Mont des Arts BOZAR Consisting of a vast network of rooms and exhibition spaces, the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Art Gallery), designed by Victor Horta, first opened in 1928. Recently refurbished in accordance with the original plans (new roofs, construction of new rooms, etc.), in 2003 it took the name “BOZAR”, designed to be easier to understand in different languages and to be used for different activities: Bozar Architecture, Bozar Cinema, Bozar Dance, Bozar Expo, Bozar Literature, Bozar Music, etc.
BOZAR shop The Bozar shop is the first international arts shop in Belgium and occupies the entire 360-square-metre retail space of the Centre for Fine Arts. Here you can browse through thousands of art books, catalogues, children’s books and magazines. You might also discover their huge stock of posters, CDs, DVDs, postcards and gift items. A real Ali Baba’s cave, also opened during evening concerts. Rue Ravenstein 23 - 1000 Brussels.
Rue Ravenstein 23 - 1000 Brussels.
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Mont des Arts Museum of Musical Instruments Housed since June 2000 in a superb Art Nouveau building – the former Old England department store – the Museum of Musical Instruments contains some 7000 instruments! Infrared headphones enable visitors to listen to the sounds made by the instruments on display. Its terrace and restaurant on the top floor offer one of the most beautiful views of Brussels.
Cinematek Renamed “Cinematek” in 2009, the Museum of Cinema now looks out on the city, through windows designed by Horta, and has two new modern and extremely well-equipped auditoriums (interactive screens, etc.). Light and spacious, Cinematek has one of the most important film collections in the world, containing more than 60.000 different titles! Rue Baron Horta 9 - 1000 Brussels.
Rue Montagne de la Cour 2 - 1000 Brussels. Tuesday to Friday, 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Place Royale Place Royale Situated on one of the highest hills overlooking the Senne valley, it occupies the location of the old Palace of Coudenberg, built by the Dukes of Brabant and destroyed in the fire of 1731. An archaeological dig in 1995 uncovered a maze of old streets and squares six metres below ground level : Rue Isabelle, corner towers, immense cellars and the Aula Magna, a vast ceremonial hall. Not to be missed! Royal Art Galleries of Belgium These buildings house one of the best collections in the world: nearly twenty thousand works (paintings, drawings and sculptures) are conserved here. They are divided into two sections: the Museum of Old Art (works from the 15th to the 18th century: Bruegel, Pierre-Paul Rubens, Antoine Van Dyck, etc.) and the Museum of Modern Art (from the end
of the 18th century to the present day : Paul Delvaux, Pablo Picasso, James Ensor, etc.). Rue de la Régence 3 - 1000 Brussels. Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Musée BELvue The Hôtel Bellevue, built in 1780, has been home since 2005 to the first museum devoted to the history of Belgium. Unique historic documents, audiovisual recordings, historic artefacts, information terminals, etc. are provided to help visitors discover and better understand different periods in our history: the campaign for universal suffrage, the royal question, reforms of the state, etc. Place des Palais 7 - 1000 Brussels. Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Place Royale Magritte Museum Since June 2009 the fully renovated Hôtel Altenloh has housed the largest museum devoted to Belgium’s greatest surrealist painter. Two hundred works (paintings, photographs, drawings, posters, engravings, gouaches, artefacts, etc.) displayed on five floors retrace the different periods in the artist’s life. Constitutional Court Formerly the Court of Arbitration, the Constitutional Court ensures the Belgian Parliament operates within the constitution. Set up in 1980, it is run by 12 judges assisted by public auditors (maximum 24) and two clerks, half of them French-speaking and half Flemish-speaking. Built in the neoclassical style, the building over the years has been used for many different purposes: originally a private house (from 1781), throughout the 19th century it was used as a hotel for travellers known as the “Hotel de Flandre”, and then from 1924 was used
to house different ministries, including the Ministry of the Colonies and Foreign Affairs. The Courts took over the newly renovated building in 1993. Bruxelles Info Place (BIP) Opened in May 2008, the BIP is the perfect place for finding out everything there is to do in Brussels: tours, events, exhibitions, concerts, culinary discoveries, architectural and cultural heritage, sports, accommodation, etc. Once you have been to the BIP, the capital will hold no secrets for you! Rue Royale 2/4 - 1000 Brussels. Open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Place Royale Palais Royal de Bruxelles Four private houses built in the 17th century form the current Palais Royal, one of the capital’s most beautiful public buildings. Although Leopold I was content with the original building, the same could not be said for Leopold II who made major changes in 1904 (restoration of the right wing, refurbishment of apartments and state rooms, etc.). However it was Queen Paola who brought Belgian contemporary art into the royal residence (photographs, paintings, wall coverings, etc.). The palace now accommodates the offices of the Belgian monarchs and is open to the public every year from July to September.
Parc de Bruxelles Created in the late 18th century, the royal park – 11 hectares of gardens set between rue Royale, rue Ducale, rue de la Loi and place des Palais – has three main paths radiating outwards from a single point, crossed by two other paths linking rue Royal and rue Ducale. The park is bursting with unexpected treasures such as a bandstand, an octagonal pond, fountains and nearly sixty statues of Greco-roman inspiration. It is also the place where people gather for the national festival on 21 July. Place des Palais - 1000 Brussels.
Place des Palais - 1000 Brussels. From July to September, 10.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. (closed Mondays).
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sablon marolles Rummage, find and take away
The south part of the “pentagon� consists of two different yet complementary quarters: Sablon and Marolles. While one is the place for antique dealers, the other is where the second hand shops can be found, and they offer everything from the rarest of items to small side tables and other curiosities.
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Le Sablon
Les Marolles
Shops, restaurants and art galleries are stuffing this district, the place to be for antiques lovers.. As a matter of fact, an antiques market is held every saturday and sunday on the place du Grand Sablon. It’s a great place for food lovers: renowned chocolate makers and chefs have establishments here.
This quarter is inhabited by “echte brusseleirs’ who give it its authentic, popular appeal. At its heart, the flea market held every morning on place du Jeu de Balles (which takes its name from a form of pelote that was once very popular) is a paradise for a stroll and a browse and for lovers of bric-a-brac of any kind.
Le Sablon also has its architectural pearls, such as the Palais d’Egmont and the townhouses on rue aux Laines, which bear witness to the splendour and opulence of the quarter in the 17th century. The Square du Petit Sablon is also worth a visit: 48 statues representing the guilds of old times surrounding a small park from the Belle Epoque (1895). The Church of Notre-Dame, a Brabant gothic masterpiece with its superb stained glass windows, was once the burial place of the district’s noblemen.
Open and welcoming, the quarter is bursting with interesting places. From the Palais de Justice –Law Court– (one of the largest buildings in Europe!) to the Porte de Hal (the remains of the medieval gate) and the lift (in place Bruegel), the Brussels public baths and the Ateliers des Tanneurs, it will constantly surprise you!
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G L
Anneessens
O
F
Bruxelles-Chapelle−Brussel Kapellekerk
E
Q Sablon−Zavel
S
R
Poelaert
Louise−Louiza
de Hal−Hallepoort
T
Hôtel des Monnaies − Munthof
Parc de Bruxelles Park van Brussel Palais−Paleizen
P Royale−Koning
map of the quarter
The trail concerns: • The Midi quarter, • Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, • The Mont des Arts, Trône − Troon • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center. Steps on the trail :
Porte de Namur − Naamsepoort
Q > T Q R S T
Sablon quarter Law Courts & surroundings Marolles quarter Porte de Hal (Hal Gate)
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Sablon quarter The Grand Sablon The Grand Sablon forms a vast area comprising at one end, the Church of Notre Dame du Sablon, one of Belgium’s most beautiful monuments illustrating the flamboyant gothic style of the Brabants, at its centre the Minerva fountain, and at the other end the remains of the old city ramparts and rue de Rollebeek. Rue de Rollebeek is also well known for its high-class restaurants, small boutiques and typical 'old Brussels' ambiance.
Antiques Market Situated around the Church of Notre Dame du Sablon, the antiques market has been enjoyed by collectors and art lovers alike since it was first set up in 1960. The antique shops and modern art galleries and the many art dealers in the quarter complete the range of quality on offer. Place du Grand Sablon - 1000 Brussels. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. .
Art and food lovers will want to head straight for place du Sablon for its famous restaurants, art galleries, antique shops and prestigious chocolate shops that will satisfy even the most picky. Place du Grand Sablon - 1000 Brussels.
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Sablon quarter The Petit Sablon Once an area of marshland, then a cemetery, place du Petit Sablon, created in the late 19th century is a charming square surrounded by bronze representations of fortyeight guilds. Statues of the Counts of Egmont and Horne and of great scientists of the 16th century make this little park, overlooked by the Palais d’Egmont, a welcome and refreshing place to stop. Place du Petit Sablon - 1000 Brussels.
Parc and Palais d’Egmont Between Porte de Namur and place Poelaert, the Parc d’Egmont offers visitors a pleasant, discreet place to relax. At its heart lies the Palais d’Egmont, a prestigious listed building famous for its decoration (tapestries, paintings, etc.) and its archaeological riches (collection of antiques, vaulted cellars, etc.). Today it houses the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which organises major diplomatic events there. Place du Petit Sablon - 1000 Brussels.
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Law courts and surroundings Palais de Justice (Law Courts) Begun in 1866 and opened in 1883, the Palais de Justice built by Joseph Poelaert is one of the largest stone buildings in the world, covering more than 26,000 m2. It is a monumental edifice that dominates one of the most beautiful panoramas of Brussels. Place Poelaert - 1000 Brussels.
Lift Since 2002, a lift has linked the Marolles quarter with the Avenue Louise quarter, seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. With walls entirely of glass, it ascends a 20 metre difference in street levels in just 30 seconds!
Square Bruegel Eat and drink Two large and colourful pavement cafés await you at the exit from the lift. Take the opportunity to try one of the specialities on offer or to sip a cool drink in the shade of the Palais de Justice. An arabesque structure (a piece of street furniture on which you can lean or sit), known as the “arbre à palabres”, by artist Josef Legrand, invites passers by and locals to meet and chat. Rue de l'Épée - 1000 Brussels.
Place Poelaert - 1000 Brussels. Rue de L’Épée – 1000 Brussels.
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Marolles quarter
This popular quarter is famous for its flea market, second hand stalls, antique sellers and artists. The perfect place to visit for lovers of all types of art and anyone who is just curious, it offers all the ambiance and atmosphere of Brussels long ago. Place de la Chapelle One of the oldest buildings in Brussels can be found on this square: the Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Chapelle. Its history, which began in the early 12th century, is peppered with reconstructions, conversions and restorations, bringing it from the Romanesque style to the gothic. Today it houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculpture and stained glass. An obelisk fountain (a reconstruction of the original) occupies this place. Antiques, furniture, objets d’art and typical Brussels brasseries give the square a unique appeal that is difficult to resist.
Rue des Renards Named thus in the 18th century after a very well known inn (In den Vos (The Fox)), this tiny paved street is lined with warm and welcoming bars, pleasant sunny pavement cafés and assorted boutiques. From the sound of a brass band to the pleasure of strolling and shopping, one thing is certain: there’s always something happening here!
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Marolles quarter Cité Hellemans Opened in 1915, this area is a remarkable architectural gem both because of its design (six pedestrian streets and 272 homes) and because of its Art Nouveau style. It is also one of the first examples of local authority involvement in the construction of community housing. Between the rues Haute & Blaes - 1000 Bruxelles.
Rue Haute and Rue Blaes These two parallel streets link Porte de Hal with place de la Chapelle. Two main roads typical of the Marolles quarter, they are dotted with shops selling furniture, antiques, second hand goods and decorative items, some stores as large as 10.000 m2. From small items of Art Deco furniture to period pieces and treasures on display in its many art galleries, a visit to the quarter's shops has many surprises in store. Rues Haute et Blaes - 1000 Bruxelles.
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Marolles quarter Place du Jeu de Balle A paradise for bargain hunters since 1873, the place du Jeu de Balle is worth a detour just to enjoy its ambiance and trademark venues: the Brussels public baths (rue du Chevreuil 28), built in the Modernist style, and the old fire station designed by Joseph Poelaert. Place du Jeu de Balle - 1000 Brussels.
Flea Market At the heart of the Marolles quarter, the place du Jeu de Balle has been well known for its second hand and antique stalls since 1873, with nearly 500 stalls taking over the “Vieux Marché”. Plunge yourself into the atmosphere of this friendly market and take the opportunity offered by one of the many cafés to try one of our Brussels specialities. Place du Jeu de Balle - 1000 Brussels. Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Marolles quarter Les Ateliers des Tanneurs Built in 1909 by Fernand Symons, the Ateliers des Tanneurs, a former wine warehouse (Palais du Vin) with an Art Nouveau facade, was listed in 2001. Bought in 1996 by the Brussels-City CPAS (social services centre) and renovated, this building along with the neighbouring former Merchie-Pède shops is now an important new business centre in the Marolles quarter accommodating, among other things, the Ateliers des Tanneurs Business Centre. Rue des Tanneurs 58 / 62 - 1000 Brussels.
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Porte de Hal Porte de Hal The last gate of the second medieval wall around the city of Brussels, the Porte de Hal, built in 1381, was used in turn as a grain store, house of correction, prison and archive store. Altered in the first half of the 19th century to suit contemporary tastes, this fine example of military architecture has been restored several times and currently houses a museum not only about the history of the building and its occupancy over time, but also about the history of the city and its folklore. Temporary exhibitions and a variety of events also take place there each year. Boulevard du Midi - 1000 Brussels.
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SaintGilles CenteR take the time to put the world to rights The centre of Saint-Gilles, the municipality’s historic and commercial heart, boasts many assets such as the quality of its heritage and architecture, a dynamic cultural life, varied cuisine, tradition and cultural diversity in its nearly 800 shops, and one of the oldest markets in Brussels.
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Ideally positioned between the Midi, Marolles and Louise quarters, the centre of Saint-Gilles is extremely well served by public transport with Brussels-Midi international station, the metro, trams and buses from the 3 regions passing through. This explains in part the buoyancy of the property market here. Saint-Gilles is a very popular neighbourhood because it offers an excellent quality of life.
The quarter is increasingly becoming a place of alternative consumption, to which globalisation has brought rich exchanges and experiences. Distinctly modern, the centre of Saint-Gilles also has something of the bohemian spirit open to utopian ideals about it.
Well known for the high standard of its cultural expression, the municipality is where many arts academies and colleges are located. Consequently, numerous art galleries thrive in the surroundings. — 313
Gare du Midi−Zuidstation Brussels Midi
B
Porte de Hal−Hallepoort
Hôtel des Monnaies−
T U
V Z
W Parvis de Saint-Gilles Sint-Gillis Voorplein
Saint-Gilles Sint-Gillis
Y
Barrièrre−Bareel
X
Horta
R
−Munthof
Poelaert
map of the quarter Louise−Louiza
The trail concerns:
Stéphanie−Stefania
• The Midi quarter, • Saint-Géry, • Saint-Jacques, • The Grand-Place, • The Mont des Arts, • The Sablon & Marolles, • Saint-Gilles Center. Steps on the trail : U > Z U V W X Y Z
Av. Jean Volders & surroundings Saint-Gilles church Parvis & surroundings Barrière & surroundings Rue du Fort Place Bethléem & surroundings
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avenue Jean Volders and surrounding Avenue Jean Volders and the surrounding area This is a particularly wide avenue with some very large buildings along each side. They are built in a Haussmann-style, quite exceptional in Brussels. Despite the passage of time, the avenue has conserved its period charm. It offers a very varied range of shops and functions very much to the rhythm of the Parvis market. Typically Belgian brasseries and a range of highly original restaurants can be found here, ideal to enjoy the gentle buzz of the community. Illustrating the changing times, arts and crafts are making their appearance in this neighbourhood.
Rue Vanderschrick Particularly the section between avenue Jean Volders and chaussée de Waterloo, shows the stunning Art Nouveau-ensemble from architect Ernest Blérot. Rue Vanderschrick 6 - 1060 Brussels.
Jean Volders, a socialist politician, was one of the promoters of universal suffrage. His taste for debate in public places continues to this day. Avenue Jean Volders 46 - 1060 Bruxelles. — 317
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Saint-Gilles church Saint-Gilles church Looking down the avenue, you can admire the 13th century Church of Saint-Gilles. It was replaced in the 16th century with a new building facing east, with a cemetery alongside. Because the population had vastly increased in Saint-Gilles by the 19th century, a new larger church was built to replace the second. Designed by architect Victor Besme in 1862 and completed in 1878, it faced west with its main entrance on chaussée de Waterloo. Entering, you’ll discover the magnificent windows and the recently restored mural paintings. Parvis de Saint-Gilles - 1060 Brussels.
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Parvis and surroundings Around Le Parvis (n°31) The very early centre of the village of Obbrussel developed around the first church in the municipality. Le Parvis is the location of the oldest market in the capital, which has been held daily since 1865, except on Mondays. The shops around Le Parvis are also very colourful, with legendary brasseries and trendy bars. Market, Parvis de Saint-Gilles The Parvis market is a bastion of local culture and is particularly appreciated for its friendliness and typical Saint-Gilles mix. Fruit sellers with their colourful stalls liven up rue du Fort, while flower stalls fragrance the air in the Petit Parvis near the church.
You can also find here delicious dairy products, often flavoured with herbs that make Le Parvis smell like Provence! Furthermore, you’ll also find delicious breads here made with spelt flour, organic produce, homemade tarts, quiches and delicacies from the East: olives, dried fruit and vegetables, Turkish delight. Produce from Italy, Portugal, Spain, etc. Finally, you can always find someone you know at Le Parvis (or make new acquaintances) and spend hours sharing a “pinche” at a pavement table of one of the many establishments in Le Parvis. Parvis de Saint-Gilles - 1060 Brussels. Daily except Mondays, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Parvis and surroundings Jacques Franck Cultural Centre (CCJF) The building housing the Jacques Franck Cultural Centre was originally a small local cinema, the “Saint-Gillois”. In the euphoria of the Liberation, the cinema changed its name to “L’Élysée”. Unlike other cinemas in the quarter which were converted into larger venues, in 1969 L’Élysée became the “Théâtre du Parvis”. Today, because of the ever increasing scope of the cultural activity it protects, the Jacques Franck Cultural Centre has forged a personality of its own.
La rue de Moscou If you want to make a gastronomical voyage around the world, simply head for this street. Oriental, Cameroon, Brazilian and French specialities, Belgian meat, wine bars – there’s bound to be something here to tickle your taste buds! At the slightest hint of sun the pavement tables fill with people and the street fills with wafts of delicious food. Rue de Moscou - 1060 Brussels.
Chaussée de Waterloo 94 - 1060 Brussels.
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Barrière and surroundings La Barrière This is one of the oldest hamlets in the municipality, which has become a nerve centre for travel but remains a symbol and a well-known landmark for all Brussels’ inhabitants. The name of this crossroads is a reference to an old toll gate at the junction between chaussée de Waterloo and chaussée d’Alsemberg. On each of these roads there used to be a moving barrier. A small building was used as an office and bar. This was the bureau de la barrière (toll house) where the tolls were collected for goods and vehicles going in all three directions – Brussels, Alsemberg and Waterloo.
world to rights with friends. Around the town hall, arts and crafts (textile, glass, ceramics) are thriving. From the square you get a stunning view of the Barrière de Saint-Gilles. Place Van Meenen 39 - 1060 Brussels.
Paul Dejaer-Alsemberg At these two avenues you’ll find popular cafés and bars typical of the region but also some excellent shops. Chaussée Paul Dejaer & chaussée d'Alsemberg 1060 Brussels.
Place Van Meenen Formerly known as “Place du Sud”, this is where the splendid Saint-Gilles town hall was built in 1904. A focus for summer festivities, second hand goods markets and district fairs, the square also offers its own selection of sunny cafés at which to put the
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Rue du Fort Rue du Fort This old shopping street is now a relatively quiet street during the week, used by local residents to avoid the noisy and busy chaussée de Waterloo. However, at weekends, this street is used for an extension of the Parvis market and gets extremely busy at certain times, and is therefore not recommended for agoraphobics. Most of the oriental products on sale in the market can be found here, and it has a very warm ambiance.
creation(s), it offers a broad range of activities. Rue du Fort 35 - 1060 Brussels.
The Yakari-painting At the occasion of “2009: year of the cartoon”, the village of Saint-Gilles, the editor Lombard and the Brussels region have supported the creation of this Yakari- fresco at the outer wall of “la Maison des enfants”. A delight for the young and old. Rue du Fort 27 - 1060 Brussels.
Rue du Fort 35 - 1060 Brussels.
The Pianofabriek The Pianofabriek (Piano-Factory) is a multicultural centre in Saint-Gilles. You can find here StudioZ, which enables professional musicians to concretise their dreams. The Pianofabriek is a dynamic structure, always renewing their activities. Apart from technical trainings and help with
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Place Bethléem and surroundings Eat and Drink This was once the site of the “Bethléem” manor farm, but today School 4 stands in its place. This lively and popular quarter is the place to go if you want to enjoy Greek restaurants and their famous baby back ribs, which it is particularly pleasant to enjoy as the sun shines on the square. Place Bethléem - 1060 Brussels.
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