At the heart of Europe, and at the crossroad of two major cultures, Brussels combines all the assets of a business city and all the attractiveness of a major tourist destination. Living in Brussels is quite an experience; culturally diverse, exciting and cosmopolitan. People from dozens of cultures speak a panoply of languages.


» Museums

Brussels has over one hundred museums that celebrate its rich history and culture, some of which are recognised internationally as cultural centres. Many of the museums were created in the latter half of the 19th century a
nd earlier 20th century, at a time when the Capital's architectural development was at its summit. The design of some of the structures is startling beautiful.

The museums house paintings, sculpture and art of all sorts, as well as antiques and even the diverse of beers Belgium produces and its famous illustrated comics. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is well known for hosting the works of such internationally renowned painters as: Bruegel, van Dyck and Rubens, as well as the masters of Surrealism: Delvaux and Magritte.

» Theatre

If you are a theatre buff, Brussels offers a highly eclectic and a unique mix entertainment, including performances in English and other languages.

With thirty major theatres, a range of performances is always on offer, including classics, modern and avant-garde plays and musicals.

You can find the agenda of cultural happenings on the website of the Brussel regional government.

The Royal Theatre La Monnaie

» Music

Music is very important to Brussels and every year the list of concerts and events expands. Classical music and opera are hosted at the Theatre Royal de la Monnaie, . This venue also hosts the Royal International Competition: “Reine Elizabeth”. The Palais des Beaux Arts is where international orchestras regularly perform.

If you like jazz, you will love Brussels. It has one of the liveliest jazz cultures on the continent. There are also jazz festivals held every year, the most famous of which is the Jazz Marathon, which is held every summer in the historic centre.

» Architecture & places to visit

Variety and contrast are the key words concerning architecture. Style contrasts with style on every street of the city. Brussels is the former capital of the Medieval Duchy of Brabant. Gothic cathedrals and churches from this era sit next to gracious classical facades like the buildings around the Royal Square. The quantity of art nouveau and art deco houses apartment buildings and houses is astonishing.

The best place to get a start, if you want to know Brussels is the Grand’Place, known as one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. This market square is surrounded by splendid guild houses. The most notable building is the Gothic Town Hall.
In the Flemish tradition, every two years a multicolour carpet of flowers is laid down in the centre of the square.
 

Brussels has many surprises to offer people and few come away not impressed by the vibrancy of this multicultural city.

Want to find out more about cultural life in Brussels? Visit the website: www.brusselslife.be.