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
Creators in Brussels
For more than 20 years, rue Antoine Dansaert has been the spot for Belgian designers thanks to 6 graduates of d'Anvers who have been presenting collections to the world of fashion since 1986. Martin Margiela, king of deconstructionism, Dries Van Noten, king of superimposing, and Ann Demeulemeester with her unique silhouettes were each promoted by this school of international renown. In addition, this group of 6 includes: the daring Dirk Bikkemberghs, Walter Van Beirendonck and his flashy colors and Kaat Tilley who has been designing since she was 17. Eachof them is represented in this trend-inspiring street.
Exploring Antoine Dansaert and the smaller streets along it will have you entering into the unique universe of each of these stylists, creators, designers, and/or jewelers. For fashion victims, an "designer discovery" is organized each year by Modo Bruxellae (www.modobruxellae.be) and embellished by fashion shows and presentations of collections.
From GARE DU MIDI to RUE ANTOINE-DANSAERT
Take line 2 towards Simonis; Change at Arts-loi, take line 1B, towards Erasme; get off at Sainte-Catherine.
From RUE ANTOINE-DANSAERT to MAPPA MUNDO
Follow rue Antoine Dansaert.
