Art Nouveau's Sublime Capital: An Audio Tour in Brussels

Overview

The Quartier du Châtelain district is an architectural treasure worth finding, far from Brussels’ tourist-packed city center. On this walking tour through the quaint neighborhood’s streets, you’ll see the revolutionary Art Nouveau style that emerged here in the 1890s, transforming the cityscape with buildings that curved and twisted like exotic plants. Starting at the Louise Tower, you’ll weave your way past several of these exceptionally designed dwellings. You’ll discover how Brussels has meticulously restored architectural masterpieces like the stunning Maison Roosenboom, where you’ll see an example of a sgraffito mural. As you make your way to Musée Horta, which celebrates the famous architect, I’ll share the little-known history of the city’s townhouses. You’ll pass one of Chaussée de Charleroi’s tram shelters and hear about attempts to brand Brussels ‘the capital of Art Nouveau’ en route to Hôtel Solvay, where the tour ends.