Halle Gate: Brussels' Medieval Guardian
Explore Brussels' medieval history at the Halle Gate, the last remaining city gate, offering museum exhibits and panoramic city views.
The Halle Gate is an imposing reminder of Brussels' medieval past. Built between 1381 and 1383, it was one of seven gates in the city's second defensive wall. Originally called Obbrussel Gate, it was later renamed after the city of Halle, to which the road led. The gate controlled the access of people and goods to the city. Over the centuries, the Halle Gate has served many functions. It has been a customs house, a granary, a place of worship, a home for the homeless, and even a military prison. In the 19th century, while the other gates and defensive walls were demolished to make way for the inner ring road, the Halle Gate was spared due to its use as a prison. Between 1868 and 1871, the gate was restored by architect Henri Beyaert, who transformed it into a neo-Gothic castle. Today, the Halle Gate houses a museum dedicated to the medieval City of Brussels. Visitors can explore exhibits of medieval armor and artifacts, walk through the original central passage with its embrasures and drawbridge, discover the 14th-century vaulted rooms, and climb to the top for a breathtaking 360° view of the city.
Local tips
- Consider purchasing the Brussels Card for free access to the Halle Gate and other museums.
- Tickets can be bought at the desk or online, per timeslot.
- The panoramic view of the city from the wall walk is only accessible by stairs.
A brief summary to Halle Gate
- Bd du Midi 150, Brussels, Pentagone, 1000, BE
- +3225341518
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Halle Gate is easily accessible by public transport. Take the metro to Porte de Hal/Hallepoort station on lines 2 or 6. Several tram lines (3, 4, 10, 55, 90) and bus lines (27, 48, 52, W, N12, 365A) also stop at Porte de Hal. A single fare for public transport within Brussels is approximately €3.
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Walking
The Halle Gate is located at Boulevard du Midi 150, a 10-minute walk from Brussels-South Station. From the city center, it's approximately a 28-minute walk. Follow the inner ring road to the southern tip, where the gate's tower is easily visible.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Brussels. A taxi from Brussels city center to the Halle Gate typically costs between €11 and €14 and takes about 6 minutes. Taxi fares in Brussels are regulated, with a minimum charge of €8, a charge of €1.50, a price per kilometer of €1.50, and a rate per minute of €0.40.
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Driving
If driving, follow the inner ring road to Boulevard du Midi. Underground (pay) parking is available on Waterloolaan. Parking Porte de Hal offers 508 spaces. Other parking options include Parking Halle Gate and Justice Palace in Saint-Gilles. Parking rates vary, with street parking costing around €3.60 for 1 hour and €9.20 for 2 hours. Mobypark offers parking spaces starting from €5 per day. The Brussels-Capital Region is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), so check lez.brussels to ensure your vehicle meets the requirements.
