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he Grand-Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction on it began in the 15th century; first of all, some market halls, trade guild houses, and a town hall to establish the authority of this trading centre. Bombarded for 3 days by the French army in 1695, it was almost completely destroyed but, like a phoenix, it went on to rise from the ashes in less than 5 years. That’s why four styles stand alongside each other or sometimes even overlap; it’s a wonderful hotch-potch of Gothic, opulent baroque, neoclassical and neogothic. The tower is more or less 96 meters tall. History of the Grand-Place At the Grand-Place, numerous historic events took place: 1523: the first Protestant martyrs, Hendrik Voes and Jan Van Essen, are burned by the Inquisition there. 1568: the counts of Egmont and Hoorn are beheaded there August 1695: during the War of the League of Augsbourg, most of the houses on the Grand-Place were destroyed during a bombardment of the City by the French troops of marshal De Villeroy. Only the facade and the tower of the City Hall, which were the target, and some stone walls resisted the flaming canon balls. The houses surrounding the square were quickly reconstructed, in stone this time, by the various guilds. Among these, the house of the Brewers guild which shelters the Brewers Museum today.

The Royal Palace was built on the site of the former Palace of the Dukes of Brabant which was destroyed by fire in 1731. Started in 1820 under the reign of King William, it was modified in 1904 under Leopold II, who had it rebuilt in Louis XVI style. The side wings date from the 18th century and at the end of each wing there is a pavilion. On the left that of the Civil List and on the right the Hotel Bellevue which is currently the BELvue Museum.

Unavoidable icon of Brussels en Belgium, important place for international tourism, unique creation in the history of architecture and emblematic vestige of the World fair in Brussels (Expo 58), the Atomium is today the most popular tourist attraction of Europe’s Capital. The Atomium was constructed for the first post-war universal world exhibition (EXPO 58) The nine spheres represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. They represent the faith one had in the power of science and moreover in nuclear power. The Atomium offers today: a surrealistic walk through tubes and spheres the most beautiful panorama [360°] over Brussels and its surroundings [92m] a ne lunch at 95m height in the panoramic restaurant (light or gastronomic, always 100 % Belgian) a permanent exhibition about the history of the building temporary exhibitions with different themes a boutique full of original gifts with the Atomium colours

This bronze statuette, created in the 17th century by J. Duquesnoy the elder, embodies the irreverent spirit of Brussels. Also known as "Little Julian", due to confusion with another fountain, het Juliaensborreke, it was one of the many fountains serving the city. From being a public fountain, the little fellow has now become a legendary figure. He has been given numerous costumes and decorations and his wardrobe now comprises some 800 items, recently restyled in an appealing scenography (see Museum of the City of Brussels). The oldest (known) costume was given to him by the Elector of Bavaria in 1698. Manneken-Pis has, alas, been the victim of several acts of vandalism. It was in 1745 that he was kidnapped for the first time by the English. Two years later, it was the turn of the French to steal him. Hearing of this, Louis XV gave him, by way of reparation for this outrage, a rich costume in gold brocade and decorated him with the cross of Saint-Louis. In 1817, the statuette was stolen again, this time by a reprieved French convict, and was found broken in pieces. The fragments were used to make the statuette which you can see today on the old fountain.

This free museum in the beautifully renovated Eastman building takes visitors on a journey along the path of Europe’s history and challenges them to contemplate its future. The permanent exhibition is based on fascinating objects from more than 300 museums and collections from across Europe and worldwide. An interactive tablet guides the visitor in each of the EU’s 24 official languages, from the early European myths and discoveries, to the chaos of the 20th century, followed by a growing feeling of unity and belonging. The House of European History provides visits perfectly tailored for schools, families and groups. The permanent exhibition: The exhibition guides visitors through key moments of European history. First come the convictions and beliefs of the 19th century – when Europe reached ‘modernity’ – followed by a period of destruction and war, before the exhibition ends with Europe’s search for a new life and an increasingly united continent. Education and learning: The House of European History has developed various educational programmes that guarantee a memorable experience thanks to interactive equipment, original and replica objects, presentations, multimedia, teaching materials, workshops and seminars. They encourage visitors to question and debate Europe’s history and its consequences for the world today. An extraordinary location: The Eastman building – which was once a dental clinic for disadvantaged children – is an Art Deco gem. The building has been meticulously restored and houses, among other things, beautiful wall paintings depicting the stories of French author Jean de La Fontaine. It lies in the ten hectare Leopold park, a perfect place for a picnic or a relaxing break on a bench!

Whether you are looking for quiet elegance or spectacle and panache ... memories are made from moments at La Monnaie! Belgium's national opera house offers a varied range of both historical and modern rooms for private events, from dinners and concerts to conferences and award ceremonies. It is perfectly located in the historic heart of Brussels, with extensive parking facilities and public transport within walking distance.

© visit.brussels - Eric Danhier