Mons train station has been recognised as one of the seven most beautiful railway stations in the world for 2025, according to the prestigious Prix Versailles awards announced on Monday.
Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the newly inaugurated station was praised for its "aerial style, clean lines, and dazzling white steel forms."
The Prix Versailles jury described it as a "cathedral-like bridge, 165 metres long, linking the city's historic heart to the emerging Grands Prés district."
The annual Prix Versailles, awarded at UNESCO since 2015, honours architecture that blends aesthetics, innovation and urban harmony.
Opening of the new Mons train station with the opening of the new footbridge to passengers, in Mons, Wednesday 18 December 2024. Credit : Belga/Eric Lalmand
This year's shortlist features other standout projects, including Gadigal Station in Sydney, Baiyun Station in Guangzhou, and Qasr Al Hokm Station in Saudi Arabia.
The Mons station was also commended for its monumental gallery, inspired by Brussels' Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, and its intelligent design, which maintains a comfortable temperature even in winter.
"These works represent exceptional technical and aesthetic achievements that honour the global community of builders," said Jérôme Gouadain, Secretary-General of the Prix Versailles.
"They already stand as part of this century's architectural heritage and redefine the role of mobility."
Three of the seven stations will receive global titles, including interior and exterior mentions, during the official Prix Versailles ceremony at UNESCO headquarters in Paris on 4 December.
Each year, the Prix Versailles celebrates exemplary creations around the world that combine beauty, efficiency and respect for heritage and the urban landscape.
