Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, boasts an impressive array of architectural buildings that attract visitors from all over the globe.
Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, the city’s architecture reflects a blend of various styles, from Gothic to Art Nouveau and contemporary designs.
What makes Brussels a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts is the unique combination of historical and modern buildings that tell the story of the city’s evolution.
Whether strolling through the city center or exploring less-traveled neighborhoods, visitors are sure to encounter stunning buildings that capture the essence of Brussels’ architectural heritage.
1. Atomium
The Atomium is a symbol of Brussels and Belgium. It was designed by engineer André Waterkeyn along with architects André and Jean Polak.
Built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, it stands at 102 meters tall.
This unique structure resembles an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
Its nine spheres are connected by tubes and offer stunning panoramic views of the city. The spheres house exhibitions dedicated to science and design.
Located at Square de l’Atomium, it represents scientific progress and Belgian engineering skills.
Visitors can explore the exhibitions inside and enjoy the futuristic design of this landmark.
The Atomium remains a must-see attraction, embodying both historical significance and modern architectural innovation. Its design and purpose continue to fascinate tourists and locals alike.
2. Grand Place
Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt, is the central square in Brussels. It’s known for its stunning 17th-century architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
The square is paved with cobblestones and surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House.
The Town Hall, built in the 15th century, stands out with its Gothic architecture and tall spire.
Statues decorate its façade, adding to the grandeur. The King’s House or Maison du Roi, now houses the Museum of the City of Brussels.
Despite being destroyed by French bombardments in 1695, the square was rebuilt, showcasing the resilience of Brussels.
Today, Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It’s a must-visit location for anyone interested in history and architecture.
3. Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace of Brussels stands as a symbol of Belgium’s monarchy.
Originally constructed between the 11th and 12th centuries, the palace has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries.
The building is famous for its stunning architecture and grand interiors.
Visitors are often drawn to its majestic facade and the beautifully decorated rooms inside, including large reception halls used for official functions.
Although it has not been the official royal residence since 1831, the palace remains an important place for royal events.
Every summer, the public can visit the palace from late July to September, offering a unique glimpse into its regal history.
For more information, you can visit the Royal Palace of Brussels.
4. St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral
St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral in central Brussels is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. This cathedral is dedicated to Saint Michael and Saint Gudula, the patron saints of Brussels.
Construction began in the 11th century on the foundations of a Romanesque church. The Gothic structure, famous for its twin towers, was largely completed by the 13th century.
The interior is marked by beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. The cathedral also features impressive sculptures and a striking pulpit.
It took about 300 years to finish this masterpiece, making each part of the cathedral rich with history.
For more details, visit the Wikipedia page.
5. Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis, meaning “Little Pissing Man,” is a well-known bronze statue in Brussels. It depicts a small boy urinating into a fountain. This famous landmark stands at just 55.5 cm (21.9 inches) tall.
Created by sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder in 1619, the statue now on display is a replica from 1965. The original is kept safe in the Brussels City Museum to prevent damage.
The statue has an extensive wardrobe, with costumes for numerous occasions.
These outfits showcase the city’s vibrant culture and sense of humor.
Manneken Pis is often dressed to match different events and holidays throughout the year.
You can find Manneken Pis at the junction of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne. It remains one of the most unusual and beloved landmarks in Brussels. For more information, you can visit the Manneken Pis page on Northern Wanderers.
6. Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice, located in Brussels, Belgium, is one of the most significant buildings in Europe.
The building was designed by architect Joseph Poelaert and completed in 1883.
It covers a massive ground surface of 26,000 square meters. The structure stands 344 feet (105 meters) high and dominates the city’s skyline. It is the largest courthouse in Belgium and a notable landmark.
Constructed on a high plateau, it overlooks the historic center of Brussels.
The architectural style is described as Assyro-Babylonian, blending different styles to create an impressive and grandiose look.
The palace contains eight courtyards, 27 large courtrooms, and 245 smaller rooms.
Visitors are often impressed by the sheer size and intricate details of this monumental building. For more details, visit the Brussels Palace of Justice page.
7. The Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum, located in the Old England building, is an architectural gem in Brussels. This stunning Art Nouveau structure on Mont des Arts was built in 1899 and has been home to the museum since 2000.
Visitors can explore over 8,000 instruments displayed across four floors. Each exhibit showcases the rich history of music from around the world.
The museum also features a concert hall, a library, and a workshop space.
The building itself is a highlight with its intricate facade and beautiful design. For more details, visit the Musical Instrument Museum.
8. The Comic Strip Center
The Comic Strip Center is located in the heart of Brussels. It is dedicated to Belgian comics and housed in an Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta.
Opened to the public in 1989, the center has exhibits featuring famous Belgian comic characters like the Smurfs and Tintin.
The building itself is an architectural gem, completed in 1906.
Visitors can explore the rich history of comic strips and enjoy the unique blend of art and architecture. The museum offers a fun experience for both kids and adults. Learn more about it at Belgian Comic Strip Center.
9. Magritte Museum
The Magritte Museum is a key cultural spot in Brussels. It is located in the Royal Quarter and is part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
Housed in the 18th-century Hôtel du Lotto, the museum displays the world’s largest collection of works by René Magritte.
The collection includes 230 items such as paintings, gouaches, drawings, sculptures, and advertising posters.
One of the highlights is “The Empire of Light,” a surrealist masterpiece that captures the blend of day and night.
Visitors can explore the museum from Tuesday to Friday, between 10:00 and 17:00.
For more information and exhibitions, such as guided tours and family events, visit the museum’s official website. This museum offers a great way to engage with Magritte’s surrealist art in an immersive environment.
10. Autoworld
Autoworld, located in the historic Parc du Cinquantenaire, is one of Brussels’ top architectural and cultural landmarks. This neo-classical building was built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgium’s independence in 1880.
Inside, visitors can explore a collection of over 300 classic, racing, luxury, and prototype automobiles.
The building’s vast, cavernous space perfectly complements the extensive array of vehicles on display, which span over a century of automotive history.
The museum also features themed temporary exhibitions, adding a dynamic element to each visit.
One notable section, “Belgium at Autoworld,” showcases the unique relationship between Belgium and the automobile industry, highlighting locally significant vehicles.
Autoworld is a must-visit for both car enthusiasts and architectural admirers. The fusion of historical architecture with the evolution of automotive design makes it a standout destination in Brussels. For more details, visit Autoworld Brussels.
Architectural Styles in Brussels
Brussels showcases a diverse range of architectural styles, from the ornate Gothic Revival structures to the flowing lines of Art Nouveau and the eclectic forms of Postmodern Architecture. Each style contributes uniquely to the city’s rich architectural tapestry.
Gothic Revival
The Gothic Revival style in Brussels features grand designs inspired by medieval Gothic architecture. Key elements include pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.
A prime example is the Town Hall on the Grand Place.
Built in the 15th century and later restored in the 19th century, its facade is adorned with numerous statues and a towering spire.
Another notable building is St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral. Its twin towers and intricate stone carvings exemplify the Gothic Revival style, making it a must-visit site.
Art Nouveau
Brussels is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, characterized by organic shapes, flowing lines, and intricate details.
This style emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a reaction against industrialization.
Victor Horta, a prominent architect, significantly influenced this movement.
His works, like the Horta Museum, once his home and studio, feature curved lines and decorative ironwork that exemplify Art Nouveau.
Another essential visit is the Berlaymont Building, known for its innovative structure and artistic elements.
The building’s facade and interior designs reflect the style’s emphasis on harmony between art and architecture.
Postmodern Architecture
Postmodern architecture in Brussels combines historical elements with modern techniques and materials. This style aims to create a more humanistic and playful approach to architecture.
The Black Pearl Building, located in the European Quarter, is a notable example.
It features modern environmental design and a clear, minimalist aesthetic with smooth concrete surfaces and steel details.
Another interesting structure is the Atomium, built for the 1958 World Expo. Its unique design, resembling an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, is an iconic symbol of Brussels’ Postmodern architectural spirit.
Medieval Origins
Brussels’ medieval origins are evident in structures like the Town Hall at Grand Place. This 15th-century Gothic masterpiece features a 96-meter tower topped by a statue of the archangel Michael.
Its ornate façade highlights medieval craftsmanship with numerous statues and intricate designs.
The King’s House, also known as the Bread House, is another significant medieval building. Originally built in the 12th century, it served as a commercial hub before becoming the residence of the Duke of Brabant.
These medieval buildings symbolize Brussels’ development as a central trade and administrative hub in the region. They showcase the architectural styles and construction techniques of that era, providing valuable insights into the city’s early urban landscape.
Influence of the Spanish Netherlands
The influence of the Spanish Netherlands period (16th-17th centuries) on Brussels’ architecture is profound. During this time, the city saw the introduction of Renaissance elements alongside existing Gothic styles.
The Stoclet Palace, an early 20th-century mansion, reflects this blending of styles with its Art Nouveau and Art Deco features.
Grand Place also demonstrates this mix, with buildings that were rebuilt after the 1695 bombardment. The Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles present in the square’s architecture highlight the city’s response to political and social changes under Spanish rule.
This period added depth to Brussels’ architectural landscape, blending local traditions with new influences, creating a unique and diverse urban fabric. These structures remain a testament to the city’s ability to adapt and incorporate different architectural movements.