The small, but charming, Parc de Bruxelles is the oldest park in the city, and is bordered on one side by the Royal Palace and on the other by the Belgium Parliament (Palais de la Nation) . Its fountains, tree-lined paths and several statues make it a pleasant place to stroll, and for those seeking refreshments the park has a small cafe.
In the 12th century the park was laid out as a hunting ground for the dukes of Brabant, and it served that function until 1776, when the Austrian Empress Maria Theresa – who ruled the city – had the park turned into the symmetrical French style garden which we see today. The park’s layout is testimony to the influence of Free Masonry in 18th century Brussels, with its pathways and fountains forming the outlines of freemasonry symbols – in particular the compass and set square.
In September 1830 a battle for Belgium independence took place here and the park was the scene of much bloodshed as young Belgium’s battled the Dutch army, successfully forcing the Dutch to leave the city.
Belgium’s independence is celebrated as a national holiday on 21 July with celebrations all around the city. Festivities also take place in Brussels Park to mark the September battle, and people gather here to celebrate the birth of their nation with parties and a fire work display.
Address
Parc de Bruxelles
1000 Bruxelles
How to Get There
Metro: Parc Station
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