Dual images. How many women do you see

People are divided into those who love Brussels and those who hate it. Those who love can talk for hours about how magnificent its boulevards, gardens, museums and banks, puff pastries, Flemish lace and bureaucrats from the European Union are. The latter can’t stand this very thing.1. Stay in one of the oldest hotels in Brussels - Hotel de Paris (Boulevard Poincare, 80), with a Gothic façade decorated with scrolls, great view on the Grand Place and Boulevard Midi, as well as a chic waffle shop. The smell of fresh Belgian waffles in your room is guaranteed from ten in the morning to eight in the evening.2. Walk to the Exchange building and sit in any of the cafes nestled here. Order the local drink Pimm’s, which is served cleverly at the Exchange: 40 grams of vermouth is poured into a tall glass with finely crushed ice, add ginger ale and plop in a slice of fresh cucumber. Some people buy this vermouth in stores and bottle it, but this is simply a crime. On your third serving of Pimm’s, understand what the Exchange reminds you so much of - Saint Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg.3. Rub yourself in one of the most postcard squares old Europe- Grand Place. Gaze at the Gothic Town Hall, the House with the Swan, where Karl Marx once lived, the Bakers' Guild House and the Flemish lace shop. Go into the narrow, narrow alley to the right of the Town Hall and, having made your way through a couple of blocks where they sell tapestries, waffles and garden fountains in the shape of a pissing boy, get to the original itself - the golden sixty-centimeter Manneken Pis on L’Etouv Street. In the heat he is naked as a falcon, in the cold they put funny clothes on him, and then they release albums with photographs of the baby doll in different outfits. It’s easy to miss: it’s really tiny. So keep your eyes open.4. Lie on the grass in the Botanical Garden. In March, there is a horror film festival here, and among the orchids and bougainvillea, Dario and Asia Argento walk arm in arm, followed by directors Danny Boyle and Stefan Elliott. The rest of the time, roller skaters rush around here, bankers' wives decorously walk their Italian greyhounds, and young mothers with strollers gossip.5. Visit the arts and crafts fair at Ronde Pointe Agora. There are armies of steel, crystal and plastic peeing boys, wooden cats, clay mice, brass frying pans and maple-cased barometers. These things, combined with a jar of Godiva or Leonidas chocolate spread, grabbed in the arcade near the North Station, - great gift friends from Brussels.6. Have lunch on Rue Boucher, a stone's throw from the Grand Place. Here, however, there are barkers everywhere, luring visitors in different languages ​​(including Russian): “Here, to us, here,” and they only spoil everything. But despite the shouting, the mussels in white wine sauce and tomato basil soup in these restaurants are very good. The best mussels are made in the Chez Marie tavern opposite the Gare du Nord. They are served in a giant saucepan - one serving can easily feed three.7. Walk along Rue Antoine-Densart, dotted here and there with shops. Here they sell strange asymmetrical outfits from Ann Demeulemeester, Martin Margiela, Veronique Branquinho, as well as Dirk Bikkembergs shoes, and all this stuff costs several times less than in Moscow.8. Late on Thursday evening, wander around the museums. In October and November in Brussels, 42 museums take turns working until ten in the evening. Somewhere around eight the most interesting things begin: museums are filled with funny and cheerful young people who only wake up in the evening, as well as those who might be happy to go to museums during the day, but do not have such an opportunity due to work . Whether in the morning or evening, do not miss the Royal Museum, where the best collection of Flemings in the world is collected: Bruegel, Memling, van der Weyden, David Gerard.9. Drink at your local T.G.I. Friday's on Empire Boulevard. Here are the same lampshades from stained glass, as in all T.G.I. Friday's in the world, but the tables are old, polished pine, and the amazing bartender plays exclusively Elton John CDs. And the most valuable thing: only here Long Island is served in liter mugs. Even in America they haven’t thought of this.10. Digging through the junk deposits at the huge flea market that occupied the territory from the Delliez parking lot to the Lovain highway. All year round, from Friday to Sunday, they sell old lace, velvet suits, handbags with yellowed metal clasps, lorgnettes, tattered comic books and maps. Find an ancient Louis Vuitton suitcase here and, returning to the hotel, pack all your Brussels purchases into it. Visa
Schengen, €35, from 3 to 11 working days.
Embassy of Belgium in Moscow: M. Molchanovka, 7, 780 03 41 (visa department, 14.00-18.00), 780 03 50 (answering machine with visa information), www.diplomatie.be/moscowru/ Currency
Euro, €1 = 34.64 rub. Ticket
Only Aeroflot flies directly from Moscow to Brussels (from $280). Text: Svetlana Reiter
Photo: © Ludovic Maisant, Corbis

The Belgian capital is ignored by most travel agencies: among travelers it does not have the same bright image as Paris, Prague or London. However, when planning a trip to Europe, you should not forget about Brussels: this city has its own cozy atmosphere, which you can immerse yourself in headfirst using the 10 most successful ways.

1. Take a walk along the Grand Place

Let it not be in Brussels Eiffel Tower, Big Ben or the Colosseum; but its central square is positioned as the most beautiful square Europe! You are unlikely to miss the Grand Place during your introductory walk: all the city’s tourist routes lead to the square, surrounded by an even square of buildings with openwork facades.

2. Be surprised by the size of the “Manneken Pis”


In search of a monument to a child who, according to legend, saved the city from fire in a “pioneer” way, you can easily slip past the famous statue. Yes, the monument is so small that many tourists, out of ignorance, mistake it for a smaller copy of the original. However, despite its unimpressive size, Manneken Pis remains a key symbol of the city. And if you come to Brussels before any celebration, then you will have every chance to catch the ritual of dressing up a boy, when he is seriously dressed in a national costume.

3. Eat a waffle with whipped cream


Belgian waffles, covered with a layer of strawberries and bananas, generously sprinkled with whipped cream and decorated with chocolate patterns, are a truly unearthly treat, the cost of which, by the way, is very modest by the standards of expensive Belgium: only 5 euros for an impressive portion. The most delicious waffles are sold right next to the notorious “Manneken Pis”. There are no tables in the area, but on a sunny day you can enjoy a treat sitting on the steps of one of the old houses in the surrounding streets.

4. Enjoy the smells of the “restaurant district”


The Belgians know a lot about food. The local cuisine is not only famous confectionery, but also the combined traditions of French, German and Flemish cooking. The main gourmet corner of the city is the Ilo-Sacré quarter, known as the “Belly of Brussels”: here, dozens of restaurants are squeezed into several narrow streets haute cuisine. Competition between establishments is high: almost every restaurant has barkers who lure customers as intrusively as traders in markets. However, their work can be called unnecessary: ​​the rich smells of food that fill the quarter attract people to restaurants stronger than any words. True, the price tags in restaurants are off the charts, and lunch at a table with crowds of tourists scurrying past can hardly be called comfortable, so it’s better to use a walk to just work up an appetite before a meal in a less popular place.

5. Try fruit beer


400 varieties of local beer are an impressive variety for such a modest country as Belgium. If you want to turn beer tasting into a gustatory experience, then bypass the regular varieties in favor of beers aged with fruit and mixed with juices. This beer is easy to drink (unlike most other local varieties, which are high in strength), refreshing and extremely pleasant to the taste. The most famous brand this kind- Liefmans.

6. Look at Atomium


Although the city is full of ancient buildings and narrow cobbled streets, one of its most famous landmarks dates back to the 20th century. "Atomium" is a bizarre structure that symbolizes the atomic age and, according to the architect's idea, calls for peaceful use atomic bomb. You can climb into a restaurant with an observation deck on one of the spheres, or you can just wander around: “Atomium” was erected in the middle of a cozy park, on the grass of which it is pleasant to walk bare feet after a day of excursion.

7. See all of Europe in one fell swoop


In the Mini-Europe park, on an area of ​​24 square kilometers, 350 of the most beautiful European buildings from 80 cities fit. A walk, of course, will not replace a full-fledged European tour, but it will allow you to outline a list of attractions that you will want to see in other cities.

8. Take photos of comics on the walls


Belgium is the birthplace of not only high-quality chocolate and beer, but also comic books. The Belgians love the heroes of their national comics so much that they don’t consider it shameful to paint their portraits historical Center cities. In the 90s, the Comics Run program was even launched here, the essence of which boils down to a simple idea: if any building has a naked gray wall, then it can be given over to graffiti artists who will paint it with stories from Belgian comics. Portraits of the famous character Tintin and other colorful graffiti against the backdrop of ancient buildings look quite exotic - all the more beneficial for your photo report.

9. Splurge at Wittamer Chocolate Boutique


Belgian chocolate is a favorite of those with a sweet tooth, and the Wittamer brand is a favorite of Belgian chocolate connoisseurs. Yes, of course, this concentrated happiness is expensive: from 70 euros per kilogram. Yes, chocolate will not survive to your grandchildren: since it contains no preservatives or GMOs, it can be stored for a matter of weeks. But still, this chocolate is supplied to royal family: its taste can replace a trip to the best restaurants in Brussels.

10. Experience surrealism at the Rene Magritte Museum


Although Belgian art collections cannot boast of particular fame, a museum opened here in 2009, which immediately attracted the attention of the world cultural community. Surreal paintings, photographs and posters created by the brilliant Belgian artist are collected in a building that is remarkable in itself: on its façade there is a giant curtain that, when pulled apart, invites you to go inside and immerse yourself in a world of mystery and creativity.

The busy streets of Brussels are always crowded. Tourists seem to be drawn like a magnet to the pompous and desirable capital of the European Union. In the summer, on the Grand Place and the surrounding streets it is impossible to find free space in cafes and even on the pavement (especially when the square is covered with a magnificent floral carpet of begonias), in museums and picturesque palaces of the city it is stuffy from large quantity visitors.

Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning Brussels is the figure of the Manneken Pis and the famous Belgian chocolate. But there are other, no less “iconic” places in the city: palaces in the Gothic, Baroque and Empire styles, historical shopping galleries, museums full of priceless works of art, as well as the pretentious modern buildings of the administrative bodies of the European Union.

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What to see and where to go in Brussels?

The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.

According to master Victor Hugo, the Grand Place surpasses in beauty all the central squares of European capitals. This picturesque place has existed since the 12th century. Markets bustled here, important public meetings took place, and the fate of the city was decided. Active development of the square began in the 15th century. Over the course of several centuries, the Grand Place was surrounded by real architectural masterpieces: town hall, Bread House, fountains, houses of trade guilds.

The modern monument is a model of a molecule, enlarged several billion times. The height of the structure is more than 100 meters, the diameter of the atoms is 18 meters. Giant atoms are connected by pipes, inside of which there are corridors and passages. Tourists can go up to the observation deck of the Atomium or visit the restaurant located inside the molecule. The monument was erected in 1958 for the opening of the next World Exhibition of Achievements.

3. Brussels City Hall

An elegant, “airy” and elegant building in the late Gothic style, decorating the Belgian capital. The construction of the town hall began at the beginning of the 15th century. According to the authors of the project, the future house of the city council was supposed to symbolize the power and significance of Brussels as an important trading capital. The architects managed to realize their plan, and now the town hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in Brussels.

A 13th-century Gothic-style building, another gem of the central Grand Place. The building seems to be woven from lace; its graceful arches and spans create a feeling of flight and striving upward. Initially, the Bread House was used as a warehouse for bread, then it was a prison, and then turned into a customs house. As a result, the family of the Duke of Brabant moved here. Today, the building houses the Brussels Museum, famous for its paintings by famous artists.

An urban area that appeared on the map of Brussels in the mid-20th century. Previously, there was an uninhabited wasteland in its place. Over time, the area turned into Cultural Center Belgian capital. There are many buildings built in neoclassical and postmodernist styles. The area contains many famous museums, picturesque parks are laid out and convenient viewing platforms are equipped.

The current residence of the Belgian kings, open to visitors during the absence of the royal family (in fact, they practically never visit this place). The palace is located in the city center near historical squares and the city park. The modern building appeared in late XVIII century, the façade was modernized in 1904.

This mansion in the north of Brussels actually houses the royal family, while the Royal Palace is just a formal residence. Laeken Palace was built at the end of the 18th century. Around it there is a landscape park with greenhouses, which is always full of tourists. The place became a royal residence only at the beginning of the 20th century.

An unusual palace of the early 20th century, built for the railway engineer A. Stoklet. The building was designed by a representative of the Viennese Secession school, J. Hofmann. This architectural style stands at the intersection of modernism, art deco and modernism. The palace is a UNESCO monument, but it is closed to public visits, as it belongs to the descendants of Stoclet.

A monumental structure the size of a city block. Due to its incredible size, local residents nicknamed it “mammoth”. The pompous Greco-Roman architecture and gilded statues decorating the facade look a little ridiculous and even scary. The palace is located on an area of ​​30.6 thousand m², the building reaches 122 meters in height. In the huge halls and numerous passages, the visitor can even get lost.

A late 19th century building located on the site of a former Franciscan monastery. The architecture is dominated by neo-Renaissance and Empire style. The interior space of the exchange is distinguished by its splendor; famous people worked on the decor Belgian masters. The Brussels Stock Exchange appeared at the beginning of the 19th century by order of Napoleon Bonaparte, and now it is a pan-European stock exchange platform.

An impressive structure of modern architecture made of glass and steel. According to the architects, it should have looked “unfinished”, since not all countries have united in the EU yet geographical Europe. The European Parliament, the main supranational legislative body of the European Union, sits inside. You can go to the building on a guided tour or on an individual basis and watch the meeting of European deputies.

A small fountain that has been decorating the Belgian capital for several centuries. Over the years, it has become the most recognizable symbol of Brussels. Unfortunately, there is no exact documentary evidence of where this fountain came from, but researchers agree that it was created at the end of the 14th century. The figure of the Manneken Pis symbolizes the humorous and freedom-loving spirit of the Belgians.

The sculpture “Pissing Girl” is also a fountain. This is a modern composition from 1987. According to one version, the girl’s figure appeared thanks to the local restaurateur Debouvry, who was offended by women. The injustice was that “There is a Manneken Pis”, but girls do not. With the advent of the fountain, both sexes were equal in their rights.

A 13th-century cathedral reminiscent of the French Notre Dame de Paris. The writer V. Hugo considered it the only true Gothic temple. The architecture is influenced by three styles: Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance. The cathedral was built on the site of an 11th-century church (its ruins can be seen through openings in the floor). The interior was created over several centuries and bears the imprints of different eras.

The temple was erected in honor of the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence. Construction took 60 years and was completed by 1969. The basilica was built in the Art Deco style and is one of the ten largest Christian churches in the world. The building is used not only for church services. On its territory there is a museum, lecture hall, exhibition gallery, concert venue.

Catholic Church in neo-Gothic style, located near the Laeken Palace. It was built according to the design talented master J. Poularta. Inside is the tomb of the Belgian monarchs. The church building was erected in mid-19th- the beginning of the 20th century in memory of the wife of King Leopold I - Mary of Orleans. While still alive, the queen wished that her body be buried in Laeken.

Gothic temple of the 15th – early 16th centuries, erected at the expense of military guilds on Sablon Square. In the Middle Ages, crossbow competitions took place in this place. The temple was rebuilt from a small chapel of the 14th century. Inside the church are altars that belonged to the military guilds and are dedicated to the patron saints of these professional communities.

The museum complex is housed in four buildings. It includes: the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Constantin Meunier Museum, the Antoine Virtz Museum, the Margritte Museum, the Fin de siècle Museum. The collection includes more than 20 thousand paintings and sculptures. It houses an outstanding collection of Dutch, Italian, French and Flemish paintings.

A museum consisting of works by the famous Belgian surrealist R. Margritte. It opened in 2009. More than 200 works of the author are exhibited here - drawings, canvases, advertising posters, photographs. The museum claims to be a full-fledged center for research into the artist’s work and heritage. You can learn about the life of R. Margritte from the films that are shown in the museum cinema.

Belgium is considered the European leader in chocolate production. It was the Belgian masters who came up with chocolate candies with filling and praline. A museum dedicated to this delicacy appeared in Brussels in the second half XVIII century. On its territory you can taste exquisite varieties of chocolate and delicious fillings. The museum is also a store where you can buy a delicious souvenir to remember your trip to Brussels.

Museum where collected musical instruments from different countries peace. The exhibition includes about 7 thousand copies. The museum was founded at the end XIX century based private collection King Leopold II. At first, the exhibits were located in the premises of the Brussels Conservatory, in 2000 they were moved to Historical building 1899, built in Art Nouveau style.

One can hardly remember a military conflict in which Belgium played a key role. However, this fact does not prevent the country from having one of the largest collections of weapons and military paraphernalia in Europe. The museum's exposition consists of sabers, swords, rapiers, modern machine guns, pistols, as well as numerous military equipment, collected from all over Europe.

The museum's collection includes several hundred vintage cars and motorcycles. There are sports cars, public transport, cars designed with environmental requirements in mind, and even cars owned by celebrities and politicians. The museum exhibits unique models“Bentley”, “Rolls Royce” and “Bugatti” of the 30s, you can also look at the car of J. Kennedy and T. Roosevelt.

The museum's collection is dedicated to the work of the architect V. Orta, who is considered the founder of the original Art Nouveau style. This master provided big influence on the architecture of the Belgian capital. The exhibition is located in the house where V. Orth lived. The building was built specifically for him; the master designed many of the interior elements personally.

Three shopping galleries united by a glass dome. They were opened in the middle of the 19th century and since then have become a place of pilgrimage for shopping lovers. In addition to shops, there are cafes, cinemas, art salons, theater stage. The Royal Galleries are valuable monument architecture of Brussels and a real decoration of the city center.

A swimming complex with one of the deepest pools in the world. The lowest point is located at a depth of 34.5 meters. Inside the pool there are several underwater artificial caves, through special windows you can watch the visitors of the local bar. People come to Nemo 33 for diving and simply for recreational scuba diving.

Medieval gate of the 14th century, once part of city ​​system fortifications The building survived the demolition of the city wall. In the 19th century, the majority of Brussels residents voted to destroy the gate, but it was preserved and was recognized as a historical property. The Halle Gate was restored according to the design of the architect Beyaert, and a museum of the history of weapons was located inside.

A park on the territory of which all the main European attractions are located in a reduced size. There is Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, numerous palaces from various European capitals and much more. The area of ​​the miniature park is 24 thousand m²; a detailed inspection of the exhibits will take several hours.

The attraction is located in the eastern part of the Belgian capital. The park was founded in late XIX century, its opening was timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Belgium's independence from the Netherlands. The park is decorated with monumental patriotic sculptures, pavilions, frescoes, marble bas-reliefs, and luxurious alleys. One of the architectural dominants is the Arc de Triomphe with antique figures symbolizing the Belgian provinces.

Wooded area on the southern outskirts of Brussels. Until the 19th century, it was considered difficult to pass and dense, but subsequently its area was significantly reduced. The forest is located in the provinces of Wallonia and Flanders, as well as in the Brussels region. There are wild animals here: wild boars, moose, forest rodents, different kinds birds. Fish live in a forest lake.

Brussels is the capital of Belgium, located on the Senne River. However, architectural landmarks cover the river, as a result of which it ceases to be noticeable to visitors. The city's population exceeds 1.1 million people.

The historical center and heart of the city is the Grand Place, surrounded by delightful buildings. You can start your walk from here, but you shouldn't stop here.

Brussels amazingly combines the desire to preserve historical and cultural heritage with constant development.

The “business card” of Brussels is the sculpture “Manneken Pis”. The composition is a bronze statue-fountain.

Exact time of creation sculptural composition unknown. However, there is information confirming that the statue existed even in the 15th century. To this day, various legends have appeared, the authenticity of which can never be verified. However, the most important thing remains the fact that sculpture attracts increased attention tourists from different countries of the world.

Location: Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat and Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat (their intersection).

Mini-Europe Park presents miniature copies all the famous sights of Europe. In just a few hours, tourists get the opportunity to get an impression of almost all famous sites in Europe. The number of exhibits reaches about 300, but at the same time they are reduced to 1/25 scale to the original size. This park pleases with its uniqueness.

Location: Bruparck.

Atomium is a unique sculpture symbolizing the scientific and technological process. The attraction was established in 1958, and this significant event managed to coincide with the World Exhibition.

Atomium Features:

• The object represents crystal lattice iron, increased by 165 billion times.
• The structure has 9 balls, each of which represents an iron atom.
• Long and wide pipes are used as connections, representing unique corridors and escalators.

This performance of the Atomium becomes a worthy embodiment of atomic energy. In this case, 9 atoms turn out to be provinces of Belgium.

If desired, tourists can not only see the Atomium, but also visit the equipped observation deck, from where a beautiful panorama opens.

Location: Square de l'Atomium.

City Hall in Brussels, located on main square Grand Place was built in the 15th century. The builders managed to implement best principles Brabant Gothic, thanks to which the architectural design of the attraction still leaves best experience.

At the very top of the Town Hall tower there is a 5-meter statue of the Archangel Michael, who defeats the devil.

In 1998, the Town Hall and the Grand Place were included in the list of UNESCO sites. Today, the building serves as the residence of the mayor, but the city administration is located on Anspache Boulevard. Visitors can visit the building and appreciate the halls decorated with tapestries and gilded mirrors.

Location: Grand Place - 8.

Construction of the Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula began in 1226. The first brick was laid by Duke Henry I of Brabant. However, the construction work was completed only during the reign of Charles V. The image of the temple, which has been preserved to this day, is embodied thanks to the project developed by Jean van Ruysbroek.

Features of the cathedral:

• Successful implementation of the principles of Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance styles;
• Two towers, different gothic style and symmetrical arrangement;
• Large central portal decorated with statues of saints.
• beautiful terrace.
• Forged reliefs decorate the powerful doors, helping to create the austere appearance of the temple.
• The interior decoration surprises with its luxury: stained glass windows, an oak altar with copper figurines.

The amazingly beautiful cathedral was consecrated in honor of St. Michael, recognized as the patron saint of Brussels.

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the Belgian monarch. The attraction is located in the city center, or rather, between Brussels Park and Palace Square. The royal family lived here, but now only audiences and official events are held here to resolve government issues.

The palace and terraces are open to tourists only from late July to early September. It is at this time that you are allowed to independently appreciate the greatness of all the rooms and halls. The Mirror Room, Throne Room, Imperial Room, and Celebration Hall deserve special attention.

Location: Rue Brederode - 16.

The Palais de Justice in Brussels is the main judicial chamber in Belgium. The attraction dates back to the 19th century. Currently the complex includes:

• 8 courtyards.
• 27 large halls.
• 245 small halls.

For many tourists, the Palais de Justice proves to be a worthy landmark in Brussels.

Location: Place Poelaert - 1.

The Sacre Coeur Basilica is considered one of the most important architectural landmarks in Belgium. It is important to note that the title French translated as "Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus".

It took more than 60 years to build. The final finishing work was completed only in 1969.

Nowadays, the basilica, made in the Art Deco style, surprises with its fancy outer walls, original bell towers and domes. More than 2 thousand people can be in the church at the same time.

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica is not only a cathedral, but also museum center, exhibition area, lecture hall and even concert venue thanks to decent acoustics.

Location: Parvis de la Basilique - 1.

The House of the Dukes of Brabant is a building made in classic style taking into account Flemish traditions. Despite the name of the attraction, dukes never lived here. It is interesting that hidden behind the rich façade are several houses that belonged to different guilds and were even famous under different names.

Location: Grand-Place - 15.

Exhibit for the museum military history began to be created back in 1830. These days there are over 2000 valuable items. At the same time, the exhibition includes ancient weapons, interesting items of military equipment, and protective equipment. As a result, the Royal Museum of Military History is considered one of the most interesting not only in Belgium, but throughout the world.

Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire - 3.

Mount Arts represents an important historical place in the central part of Brussels. The complex consists of Royal Library Belgium, state archive and a landscaped garden, recognized as a worthy observation deck.

The history of this unique place began to develop at the end of the 19th century, when it was decided that the densely populated area of ​​Brussels should be turned into the Mount of Arts. To do this, it was necessary to buy out the entire district and demolish all the buildings. However, there were not enough funds to implement the large-scale project, as a result of which the territory turned into a banal void. To improve the situation, a green garden was created, which has been preserved to this day. Only later did important sights appear.

Royal Museum fine arts- this is an opportunity to make sure amazing works painting and truly amazing sculpture.

The museum center is dedicated to old and modern art, works of painters and sculptors from Belgium. At the same time, the exhibits reveal the peculiarities of the development of creativity from the 15th century to the present day. Currently, the exhibition includes more than 20 thousand paintings.

Location: Rue de la Régence - 3.

The Black Tower is a remaining fragment of the old city wall in Brussels. The last city wall was built in the 12th century, and it was destroyed by bombing in 1695. The black tower is surrounded by a built building that perfectly complements the architectural appearance.

The Black Tower is distinguished by the following features of its execution:

• The main materials are cut stone and sandstone.
• The lower part is partially covered with ivy.
• There are narrow and high openings on the ground floor.
• On the second floor there are loophole windows with protruding cornices;
• The building is decorated with a 2-slope roof.
• The shape of the tower is semicircular.

The Autoworld Museum is dedicated to vintage cars. The current exhibition includes hundreds of rare cars and motorcycles.

All museum exhibition divided into the following thematic areas:

• Sports cars.
• Microcars.
• Ecological machines.
• Public transport.
• Cars of famous people.
• Motorcycles.

Anyone who is interested in the world of cars and motorcycles will appreciate the museum.

Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire - 11.

50th Anniversary Park was founded in 1880. On the territory of the park complex there are architectural and cultural values, giving a special flavor to the area. The entrance is made in the form of a Triumphal Arch, which is distinguished by the presence different sculptures and quadriga.

On the territory of the park complex there are various museums, the Great Mosque of Brussels and the Temple human passions. In fact, even landscaped alleys and beautiful flower beds leave the best impression of themselves.

The Museum of Musical Instruments has existed since 1876. The number of exhibits is constantly increasing, and today their number is approaching 7 thousand. It is interesting to note that musical instruments from different parts of the world are represented here. Visitors can see not only original instruments, but also primitive rattles. If you wish, you can hear the sounds of different exhibits live.

During the war periods that occurred in the 20th century, the museum temporarily lost popularity. However, active work was resumed in the 1960s, and today musical evenings are periodically held here.

Location: Rue Montagne de la Cour - 2.

The Stoclet Palace was built at the beginning of the 20th century by order of the banker Adolphe Stoclet.

Features of the palace:

• Multi-level building.
• The presence of a rectangular tower.
• The presence of a brick dome, made in the form of a hemisphere and characterized by strict geometric shapes.

The interior and exterior decoration of the palace and the garden were created in uniform style. The Stoclet Palace, along with its garden, was officially included in the list in 2009 World Heritage UNESCO. The palace can only be viewed from the street, as it still belongs to the Stoclet family.

Location: Avenue de Tervuren, Stoclet Palace, 279-281.

Belgium is famous for its beer. It is not surprising that the brewing museum reveals the peculiarities of the Belgian folk craft and is dedicated to the Guez variety, which appeared thanks to local company Cantillon brewery. The museum was founded with the goal of consumer awareness and the preservation of traditions.

Museum visitors can see the tools and objects that are used to make beer. Excursions and tastings are regularly held here. In addition, tourists can purchase the beer they like. Such museum activities play an important gastronomic and cultural role.

Location: Grand-Place - 10.

Gaasbeek Castle is located in the commune of Lennik near Brussels. The castle complex is adjacent to ponds, natural and parterre parks. The general public is allowed to closely examine the attraction.

The history of Gaasbeek began in the 13th century. The castle was built for protection purposes and before the Great french revolution belonged to the Counts of Gaasbeek. In 1388, the castle was destroyed by local residents in order to take revenge on the owner, who had somehow offended the people.

In 1889 the castle was restored in modern form. At the beginning of the 20th century, the object became state property, after which it began to serve as a museum.

Location: Kasteelstraat - 40.

The Palais des Nations belongs to the Belgian Federal Parliament. The palace is located next to Parc Royale. Construction took place between 1778 and 1783. At the same time, it was possible to implement the best principles of the neoclassical style. At the same time, the Palace of the Nation is located directly opposite Royal Palace, resulting in an impeccable architectural appearance.

Location: Rue de Louvain - 11.

Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium, but also a truly significant city in all of Europe. Numerous attractions highlight the peculiarity of the local architecture, which delights even experienced tourists.