Looking to discover a country and immersing yourself with the culture without emptying your bank account? Seek no further because Belgium just might be the country for you!
Belgium is known for it’s chocolates and craft beers but did you guys know that its cities like Brussels are filled with medieval abbeys and architectures as old as 11th century?
Here are a few of my favourites:
1. Manneken Pis
He may be little but this guy is bigger in Brussels than he seems to be! “Little man pee” is one of the city’s iconic landmark cherished by its residents. So much so, that he has always been associated with celebrations and people dress him in costume!
You may wonder about its importance but Manneken Pis is seen as a representation of the people from Brussels. Its eccentric humour became a part of the Belgian culture (they even made him a sister and a dog!)
This area is often crowded by tourists taking photos. So if you’re impatient like me, worry not because Grand Place is within five minutes of walk!
Location:
1000 Brussels, Belgium
Corner of Rue du Chene and Rue de l’Etuve
2. Grand Place (Grote Markt)
Okay, maybe some of you guys won’t be impressed by the little boy because of its size. But that’s alright! This next stop definitely won’t disappoint.
Grand Place is listed as one of the Sites of World Heritage by Unesco in 1998. Historically, it was used as a marketplace for trading goods hence the surrounding corners named after food such as Rue au Beurre and Rue du Marché aux Fromage. Most buildings were restored after the bombardment in 1695 but generally, you’re looking at an architecture from Baroque and Gothic. The ambience is something not to miss!
Location:
1000 Brussels, Belgium
(Closest Train Station: Central Station)
3. Royal Palace of Brussels (Chapel)
I went to Brussels with events going on in the city like Car Less Day. Some of the touristic spots were closed down to pave the way for food trucks, small carnivals, and exhibitions. Unfortunately, the Royal Palace was one of the landmarks that were blocked and only had the Chapel are left to be accessible.
Nonetheless, Royal Palace of Brussels is the official workplace of the King. Apart from being the residence of the his administrative, the Palace also accommodates foreign guests such as ambassadors, prime ministers, etc. This gem features a neoclassical architecture that was constructed from 1783-1934. A piece of work for sure!
Location:
Rue Brederode 16, B-1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
4. Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon
Symon’s parents laughed when I told them about the churches that I’ve stumbled upon along my trip. I mean, I was already impressed by the little ones that I passed by on my way home in Gent but apparently, I haven’t seen any of the good ones yet!
The next day, his mum took me to the church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon. It sure reminded me of Notre Dame’s Cathedral in Paris—it’s astounding! Its striking features is characterized by a gothic exterior with baroque interior decorations. It’s honestly more gorgeous than I can explain it to be.
Location:
Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
5. Musical Instrument Museum
One of Symon’s favourite buildings! Established in 1877, this museum features a collection of 8,000 musical instruments. Each visitor is given a headphone to listen to the extracted sound of 200 instruments displayed.
The building itself was built in 1899 out of girded steel and glass with a mix of being an 18th century neo-classic building and a dash of art nouveau style. What used to be an old department store became a home to a collection that is part of Royal Museums for Art and History.
Note: Free for children and adolescents under 18 years old. However, the roof top has a cafe that offers a stunning view (and food!) that is accessible for everyone.
Location:
Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
6. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
One of the prettiest galleries I’ve ever been! Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is filled with luxury boutiques, cafes, and chocolate shops that you definitely need to check out. (Yay for most of them being local!)
Back then, you had to pay just to get into the gallery. So take advantage of the freedom to access this beauty any time at no cost and be part of the six million that visits every year!
Location:
Galerie du Roi 5, Brussels 1000, Belgium
7. Mont Des Arts
What used to be a densely populated neighbourhood turned out to be one of the city’s finest views! Mont Des Arts is another historic site located in the heart of Brussels. From the elevated vantage point, you can see the overview of the Grand Place including the Brussels Town Hall. If you’re lucky and the skies are clear, you can have a sneak peak of the famous Atomium!
Location:
1000 Brussels, Belgium
8. Brussels Town Hall
Can’t get enough of gothic buildings? This one is to add on your list!
Once destroyed by fire, Brussels Town Hall was rebuilt and replenished with tapestries and paintings from 16-18th century that are representing subjects of importance in local and regional history. Aside from the numerous sculptures surrounding its walls, it has impeccable proportions and a spire that is topped by the archangel Saint-Michael.
Location:
Grand Place, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
9. St. Nicholas Church
Considered a small church in Brussels but oh man, Èglise St-Nicolas is full of wonders! It’s standing 1000-years old now but still have some remains from its original structure. From its 11th century- Romanesque lines to its 14th century Gothic facade, this church truly preserved its history.
Highlight of this church is its painting by Rubens of the Virgin and Child and the Vladimir Icon painted by an artist from Constantinople in 1131!
Location:
Petite Rue au Beurre 1, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
10. Statue (in honour) of Everard t’Serclaes
This monument is sculpted to commemorate Everard t’Serclaes who is made famous by recovering the city of Brussels back from the Flemish!
Some say that this statue grants the wishes of anyone who touches it. Others say it increases fertility. Rubbing particularly the arm ensure one’s return to Brussels. Whatever suits you, I guess it doesn’t hurt to try, no?
Location:
Charles Buls Street. 1000 Brussels, Belgium
PROJECT WANDERLUST 