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Halle Gate: Brussels' Medieval Time Capsule

Explore Brussels' medieval history at the Halle Gate, the last vestige of the city's second defensive wall, now a captivating museum.

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The Halle Gate, or Hallepoort, is the last remaining medieval city gate of Brussels' second set of defensive walls, dating back to the 14th century. Once a functional part of the city's fortifications, it has been repurposed over the centuries and now serves as a museum showcasing Brussels' medieval past.

A brief summary to Halle Gate

Local tips

  • Allow at least 90 minutes to fully explore the museum's exhibits and enjoy the panoramic city views from the top.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry, as the number of tickets available per time slot is limited.
  • A lift is available for visitors with reduced mobility, but the panoramic view from the wall walk is only accessible by stairs.
  • Visit on the first Wednesday afternoon of the month for free entry.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Halle Gate is easily accessible by public transport. Take metro lines 2 or 6, or tram lines 3, 4, 55, or 90 to the 'Porte de Hal/Hallepoort' station. Several bus lines also stop at Porte de Hal, including lines 48 and 365A. A single ticket for STIB/MIVB public transport costs €3.

  • Walking

    From Brussels Central Station, walk south along Rue de la Montagne, which becomes Rue de l'Évêque. Continue until you reach Boulevard du Midi and turn right. The Halle Gate will be on your right after approximately 10 minutes. The walk is approximately 2.4km and should take around 30 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Brussels. A taxi from the city center to the Halle Gate typically costs between €11 and €14 and takes approximately 6 minutes. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on traffic and time of day.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow the inner ring road to Boulevard du Midi. Underground parking is available on Waterloolaan. Be aware that Brussels is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), and you may need to register your vehicle or purchase a day pass. Hourly parking rates in the area range from €3.24 to €3.60, and daily rates range from €25.20 to €28.00.

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Discover more about Halle Gate

The Halle Gate is a striking reminder of Brussels' fortified past. Built between 1381 and 1383, it was one of seven gates in the city's second defensive wall. Originally known as the Obbrussel Gate, it was later renamed for the city of Halle, to which the road led. While the other city gates and defensive walls were demolished in the 19th century to make way for the inner ring road, the Halle Gate was spared due to its use as a military prison. In the mid-19th century, architect Tieleman Franciscus Suys began renovations to transform the gate into a museum. Later, architect Henri Beyaert completed the renovations, giving the gate its current neo-Gothic style. Today, the Halle Gate houses a museum dedicated to the history of Brussels, its defense, and its guilds. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring medieval armor, weaponry, sculptures, and historical artifacts. A climb to the top of the gate offers a panoramic view of Brussels. The museum also provides insights into the gate's various past roles, including a granary, customs house, place of worship, and prison.

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