Parc du Cinquantenaire

If you're planning a trip to Brussels and looking for a hotel near the Parc du Cinquantenaire, you've come to the right place. Parc du Cinquantenaire, located in Brussels' European district, is an iconic part of the city, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, history and famous monuments.

For a comfortable and convenient stay, the 9Hotel Chelton is ideally located just a few minutes from the Parc du Cinquantenaire. This establishment offers modern, comfortable and elegant rooms and top-quality services, perfect for making the most of your visit to this magnificent Belgian city.

Brussels, with its blend of historic charm and modernity, is a perfect destination for travelers. By choosing the 9Hotel Chelton, you'll benefit from easy access to the park and can easily discover all the wonders it has to offer.

History of the Parc du Cinquantenaire: from the 1880 exhibition to today

Celebrating 50 years of Belgian independence

The Parc du Cinquantenaire was created to celebrate a major event in Belgium's history: the fiftieth anniversary of its independence, achieved in 1830. At the end of the 19th century, Belgium was in the midst of an economic and industrial boom, and King Leopold II and the ruling bourgeoisie wanted to endow Brussels with prestigious infrastructures and monuments worthy of a capital city. The Brussels garrison parade ground, located in the commune of Etterbeek, was chosen to host the celebrations and a national exhibition of the products of Belgian art and industry in 1880.

This national exhibition marked the beginning of the transformation of this land into a major public space, aimed not only at celebrating Belgian independence but also at extending the city of Brussels to the north-east and creating new districts.

Architectural development: triumphal arch, palace and esplanade

Architect Gédéon Bordiau played a key role in the design of the Parc du Cinquantenaire. He imagined an architectural complex comprising two buildings linked by semi-circular colonnades, with a triumphal arch with three arcades in the center. For the 1880 exhibition, only the two side palaces and the base of the colonnades and arcade were built.

The triumphal arch, initially built of wooden panels, was gradually completed over the following years, despite financial debates between King Leopold II and the Belgian government.

The park also hosted other important events, such as the Grand Concours International des Sciences et de l'Industrie in 1888 and the Brussels International Exhibition in 1897. These events contributed to the extension and consolidation of the existing buildings, reinforcing the Parc du Cinquantenaire's status as a landmark of Brussels.

What to do at Parc du Cinquantenaire?

Parc du Cinquantenaire offers a variety of activities and attractions, making it an ideal place to spend time outdoors or explore the cultural richness of Brussels. Here are just a few of the things you can do on your visit:

• Visit the museums

  The park is surrounded by several important museums, such as the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History, and the Autoworld Museum. These museums offer an insight into Belgium's military history and an exhibition of vintage and modern cars, respectively.

• Discover the monuments and sculptures

  The park is home to several notable monuments and sculptures, such as the Monument to General Thys, the Bust of Robert Schuman, and the sculpture "Le dogue d'Ulm". You can also admire Horta-Lambeaux's "Sculptures Les quatre saisons" and "Pavillon des Passions Humaines", significant works of art located nearby.

• Green spaces and children's activities

  Parc du Cinquantenaire is a classic French-style green space, with wide paths, straight lawns, hedges and flowerbeds. It also features a small playground for children aged 3 to 7, equipped with a large sandbox, a boat and other play modules.

• Take part in events and activities

  The esplanade in front of the Palais du Cinquantenaire regularly hosts events of all kinds, including concerts, guided tours and other cultural activities. You can enjoy concerts such as "Candlelight Spring: Coldplay vs Imagine Dragons" or guided tours of Art Nouveau and the Belle Époque in the surrounding area.

• Relax and socialize

  The park is divided into areas for strolling and relaxing, with benches, trellised lime trees and green cabinets. The right-hand side of the park is dedicated to socializing, making it an ideal place to meet or simply relax.

Landmarks in Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Arc du Cinquantenaire: symbol of Brussels

The Arc du Cinquantenaire is undoubtedly the park's most emblematic monument. Designed by architect Gédéon Bordiau to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Belgian independence in 1880, this triumphal arch underwent several transformations before reaching its current form.

Initially, only the vertical legs of the arch were built, and a temporary arch in staff (a mixture of plaster and plant fibers) on a wooden structure was erected for the 1880 exhibition. Later, at the instigation of King Leopold II and with the contribution of private financiers, architect Charles Girault revised the design, creating a three-arch triumphal arch that was inaugurated on September 27, 1905, to mark the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence.

This imposing arch is crowned by a quadriga, symbolizing Brabant, represented by a chariot drawn by four horses, the work of sculptor Jules Lagae. The Arc du Cinquantenaire is not only a symbol of Brussels, but also a major landmark in the city's urban landscape.

The Horta-Lambeaux Pavilion and the Temple des Passions Humaines

Near the Arc du Cinquantenaire stands the Horta-Lambeaux Pavilion, also known as the Temple des Passions Humaines. This pavilion was designed by architect Victor Horta and sculptor Jef Lambeaux. It houses a monumental fresco by Lambeaux entitled "Les Passions Humaines", depicting man's various emotions and passions.

This work of art, created between 1897 and 1900, is considered one of the most important of Belgian Art Nouveau.

The pavilion itself is an example of Art Nouveau architecture, characterized by its flowing curves and ornamental details. It offers a unique combination of architecture and art, making it a must-see for visitors to the Parc du Cinquantenaire.

Where to eat in and around Parc du Cinquantenaire?

If you're looking for dining options near Parc du Cinquantenaire, you'll find a variety of restaurants and brasseries offering a diverse and delicious culinary experience.

In the park: Gédéon Restaurant and Bagnole Brasserie

In the heart of Parc du Cinquantenaire, Gédéon Restaurant is an address of choice. Despite its current closure, this restaurant is known for its generous cuisine, inspired by Belgian bourgeois tradition with a modern twist. It offers breakfasts, sweet and savory snacks, and meals to suit all tastes.

Le Gédéon's terrace offers a breathtaking view of the park's gardens.

Nearby, La Bagnole Brasserie, located in the Autoworld museum, is another ideal place to combine a visit to the museum with a gourmet meal. This brasserie serves classic Belgian dishes and offers a pleasant terrace to enjoy the beautiful day in the park.

Nearby: varied options

Just a few minutes' walk from the park, you'll find several restaurants offering a range of international cuisines. Kafenio, located on Stevin Street, is an excellent choice for those who love Mediterranean, European and Greek cuisine.

Customer reviews praise the incredible food and warm ambience of this restaurant.

Le Jardin du Sommelier, also on Rue Stevin, offers French, Belgian and European cuisine in elegant surroundings. It's an excellent address for a refined meal or a simple glass of wine.

If you prefer Indian cuisine, Shapla Masala, on Stevin Street, is a popular option. Here, customers appreciate the chicken tikka massala and the welcoming atmosphere.

Finally, for a more informal experience, Snack Merode, on Avenue des Celtes, offers simple but delicious snacks and dishes, ideal for a quick break near the park.

These diverse, high-quality culinary options make the Parc du Cinquantenaire and its surroundings an ideal place to combine cultural and gastronomic discovery of Brussels.

Stay at the 9Hotel Chelton: the ideal address close to the Parc du Cinquantenaire

The 9Hotel Chelton, just a 3-minute walk from the Parc du Cinquantenaire, is an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable and convenient stay in Brussels.

Rooms & Facilities

The hotel features 49 modern, well-equipped rooms, designed to meet the needs of all types of travelers. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, hairdryer and safe. Sofa beds and cots are also available on request.

Services

The 9Hotel Chelton offers a range of services to make your stay even more enjoyable. The hotel also has a 24-hour reception.

Breakfast

The 9Hotel Chelton offers a varied and delicious buffet breakfast, available for €19 per person. On request, the hotel can also prepare a gluten-free selection to meet guests' specific dietary needs.

Conclusion

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a jewel of Brussels, offering a unique combination of history, architectural beauty and leisure. Located in the heart of the European Quarter, close to the Parliament, this park is ideal for a stroll, with its iconic monuments such as the Arc du Cinquantenaire and the Pavillon Horta-Lambeaux. Visitors can also explore nearby museums, such as the Royal Army and Military History Museum and Autoworld.

For a comfortable stay, the option of the 9Hotel Chelton, just a few minutes' walk away, is perfect. Don't hesitate to plan your visit and discover all that this magnificent park and its surroundings have to offer.