Brussels Stock Exchange — Attraction in Brussels

On September 9th 2023, Brussels witnessed the historic inauguration of the Belgian Beer World in the former Stock Exchange building. This interactive venue serves as a virtual museum dedicated to Belgian beer culture. The Bourse building, an architectural gem designed by Leon-Pierre Susy and adorned with sculptures, is a fitting backdrop. The renovation, initiated in 2019, took longer than expected due to its UNESCO status. Besides the Belgian Beer World, the building also houses the "Bruxella 1238" museum, a sky bar, a restaurant, a business center, and a shop. The project aimed to attract 400,000 visitors annually, with strong support from the beer industry and various governmental bodies.

This attraction, more than a museum, offers an interactive visitor experience: visitors can explore Belgian beer culture, learn about ingredients and production, and enjoy sensory experiences. The tour, lasting around 90 minutes, concludes in the picturesque Sky Bar, offering panoramic views of Brussels. The Belgian Beer World is open daily, with an entrance fee of 17 euros, including a beer.

This addition completes Brussels' beer-related attractions, making it more appealing to a...

The old La Bourse de Bruxelles building is the stock exchange of Brussels. The grand old lady of Brussels is a staggeringly beautiful classically inspired building. The front of the building is especially with it’s classically Greek hexastyle portico topped with a highly ornate pediment with sculptures. This building and the adjacent Grand Place dominate the Îlot Sacré area with their sheer majesty.

The building is of course no longer used as a commodities exchange and not mainly hosts exhibitions. On the day I visited, there was an exhibition on capitalism, mostly informative for visitors to make up their own mind about this socio-economic system. The exhibition was mostly in French or Dutch, but there was a leaflet in English which was not as verbose as the...

A visit to Brussels isn't complete without stopping by La Bourse, the city's former stock exchange building. Nestled in the heart of Brussels, this architectural marvel, officially known as "La Bourse de Bruxelles," boasts a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Once the bustling center of commerce and trading, it now gracefully serves as a venue for diverse exhibitions, events, and public activities. The intricacy of its ornate details captivates many, making it a must-see landmark for tourists. Moreover, the "Place de la Bourse" in front offers a welcoming space, frequently buzzing with locals and visitors alike, and has witnessed numerous significant events over the years. A true gem in the cityscape...