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National Basilica of the Sacred Heart: Brussels' Art Deco Masterpiece

Discover Brussels' iconic Art Deco basilica, a symbol of peace and architectural grandeur, offering panoramic views and spiritual reflection.

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The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, Brussels, is a stunning Art Deco basilica and parish church. Inspired by the Sacré-Cœur in Paris, it's one of the largest churches in the world by area, boasting a massive green copper dome and offering panoramic city views.

A brief summary to National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Take the elevator to the dome for a panoramic view of Brussels and the surrounding area.
  • Visit the Museum of Modern Religious Art located inside the basilica.
  • Check the basilica's website for the schedule of masses and concerts.
  • Explore Elisabeth Park surrounding the basilica for a relaxing stroll.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brussels Central Station, take Metro lines 2 or 6 to the Simonis station. From Simonis, it's a short walk to the basilica. Alternatively, take bus lines 49, 53, 87, or R14 to the Riethuisen stop. A single metro or bus fare costs €3. Tram line 19 also stops at Bossaert-Basilique.

  • Walking

    From the Simonis metro station, walk north along Place Eugène Simonis, then turn left onto Avenue de la Basilique. The basilica will be visible ahead in Elisabeth Park. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. Note that the basilica is located on Koekelberg Hill.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A taxi ride from Brussels Central Station to the basilica typically takes 6-7 minutes and costs between €12-€17. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Koekelberg Basilica, is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and parish church in Brussels, Belgium. Dedicated to the Sacred Heart, it draws inspiration from the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Paris. King Leopold II laid the first stone in 1905, commemorating the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence. Construction faced interruptions due to both World Wars, finally concluding in 1970. Located atop the Koekelberg hill in Elisabeth Park, between Koekelberg and Ganshoren, the basilica dominates Brussels' north-western skyline. Its Art Deco style, with neo-Byzantine influences, distinguishes it. The structure, made of brick and reinforced concrete, features two towers and a prominent green copper dome reaching 89 meters. The basilica is one of the largest Art Deco buildings in the world. The basilica's interior showcases Art Deco characteristics with clear lines and simple volumes using brick, masonry, and natural stone. The structure is primarily reinforced concrete, with glazed terracotta for decorative warmth. Inside, visitors can explore stained-glass windows and a museum of religious art. An observation deck at 53 meters high provides panoramic views of Brussels. The basilica can accommodate up to 2,000 people.

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