Belgium: Brussels
Areas in the city:
In a nutshell...
Known as the capital of comic strips, Brussels is also unique for its mix of modern buildings and Art Nouveau style homes.
An animated and festive city, it is not rare to witness a fanfare or a parade in the Grand Place nor is it uncommon to see the Mannekenpis being adomed in a new costume; Brussels is a city for walking.
The city is spread out, with 19 districts depicting many different faces of the capital. Ixelles is famous for its nightlife, where Saint-Gilles, particularly the Maison Horta, is popular with those who are interested in Art Nouveau.
Truly European in character, Brussels offers all the Belgian specialities, from beer to waffles, but Italian and French dishes are also popular. This is a city where everyone can find something of interest.
Brussels : Walks
Around architecture
Like Rome, Brussels wasn't built in a day, particularly evident from an architectural stand point. The urban evolution of this city inspired the term "Brusselization" used to describe the phenomenon of a city that seems to develop without any sense of order. In contrast to its Flemmish-Italian architecture, Brussels is also a city full of Art Nouveau buildings by Victor Horta and Henri Ven de Velde. The Stoclet Palace and its garden, designed by Josef Hoffmann, is a symbolic example of this style. Climbing to the top of the city by way of vibrant Châtelain Place gives you the chance to view other spectacular 20th century homes by this master. The museum of Architecture, nicknamed "the Lodge" since it was built in a former masonic lodge converted by Elie Levy, presents collections of sketches, photographs, models and furniture. Multifaceted Brussels has even inspired the comic strip "Brüsel" by Peeters and Schuitten in which a futuristic vision of the city is imagined.
From GARE DU MIDI to MUSEE D ARCHITECTURE - LA LOGE
From the Midi train station, take on of the following trams: 81, 82, 93, 94. Get off at the Lesbroussart stop.
From MUSEE D ARCHITECTURE - LA LOGE to LES SALONS DE L ATALAIDE
Take rue du Bailli to the end of the rue de l'Ermitage, cross the Sainte-Trinité place. Turn right and walk 150 meters.
