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Monument au Pigeon-Soldat: A Tribute to Avian Bravery

A poignant tribute to the unsung heroes of wartime: the homing pigeons and their dedicated handlers in Brussels.

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The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat in Brussels commemorates the homing pigeons and their handlers who played vital roles in World War I and World War II. Designed by Victor Voets, the bronze sculpture atop a granite pedestal symbolizes the bravery and service of these birds.

A brief summary to Monument au Pigeon-Soldat

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along the Quai aux Barques and explore nearby attractions.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the serene environment and reflect on the significance of the monument.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat is located on Quai aux Barques 1. From the Grand Place, walk northeast towards Rue au Beurre, then continue onto Rue de la Bourse. Turn left onto Rue des Halles and then right onto Quai aux Briques. Continue onto Quai au Bois à Brûler, then turn left onto Quai aux Barques. The monument will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat is accessible via public transport. Take Metro line 1 or 5 to the 'Gare Centrale' (Central Station). From there, exit the station and walk towards Quai aux Barques. Alternatively, take bus lines 29, 46, 71, or 88 to the 'Porte de Flandre/Vlaamsepoort' stop, which is a 1-minute walk to Quai aux Briques. A single ticket costs €2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A taxi ride from the city center to Quai aux Barques 1 typically costs between €11 and €20, depending on traffic and the time of day. Taxi fares start at €2.60, with a price per kilometer of €2.30. Keep in mind that there may be a €2 surcharge for rides between 10 PM and 6 AM.

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Discover more about Monument au Pigeon-Soldat

Located on Quai aux Barques, the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat (also known as Monument aan de Oorlogsduif) stands as a tribute to the often-overlooked contributions of homing pigeons and their handlers during both World Wars. These pigeons were instrumental in delivering crucial messages across enemy lines when other forms of communication were compromised. The monument, created by Belgian sculptor Victor Voets, features a bronze pigeon perched on a granite pedestal. Inaugurated in 1931, the monument serves as a reminder of the innovative methods employed during times of conflict and honors the bravery of those who trained and cared for these avian messengers. The pedestal bears inscriptions in both French and Dutch, reflecting Belgium's bilingual heritage. The monument is in close proximity to other attractions, offering a serene space for contemplation amidst the bustling city. The surrounding area is well-maintained, providing a picturesque setting that enhances the experience.

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