The second edition of the Brussels Biennale of Eclectic Architecture (BBEA) will be held from 7 to 15 October 2023 at multiple locations in the Belgian capital.
Organised by Explore.Brussels, the event, spread over two weekends, will provide an opportunity to discover the emblematic creations of the eclectic architectural movement in Brussels.
The programme includes guided tours of interiors usually closed to the public, lectures, guided routes through the city, and targeted activities for families, schools and people with disabilities.
The eclectic movement (1840-1914), which drew its inspiration from a wide range of historical repertoires, was based on a vision of the city and architecture that reconciled art, history and innovation.
This movement, characteristic of the Brussels landscape, developed in the context of unprecedented urban growth and gave rise to a unique heritage that is still little known to the general public.
Unsuspected interiors will be opening their doors exceptionally, including the Hôtel Campioni, the former Maison de Paul Saintenoy and the Maison Bertha Harmand.
At the same time, Saint Mary's Royal Church (l' Église Royale Sainte-Marie) and the CIVA will host activities specially designed for families and children.
The event, which aims to be accessible to all, will also feature guided tours adapted for the visually and hearing impaired, organised at the Hôtel du Gouverneur de la Banque Nationale de Belgique and the Ancien Palais du Comte de Flandre.
With this type of accessibility in mind, the programme will, for the first time, include guided tours for people with mental disabilities.
On the weekend of 7 and 8 October, the route will cross the north of Brussels: Schaerbeek, Saint-Josse, Laeken and the north of the Pentagon.
On the weekend of 14 and 15 October, the tours will criss-cross the communes of Ixelles, Saint-Gilles d’Etterbeek and Anderlecht.
The event will kick off with a conference on the fundamentals of eclecticism, on 2 October at the Schaerbeek town hall.
