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Koekelberg Basilica

Avenue du Panthéon, Koekelberg, Bruxelles

Description

Koekelberg Basilica (or 'National Basilica of the Sacred Heart') is a Minor Basilica in Brussels dedicated to the Sacred Heart. Because of the two world wars, it took 60 years to complete the church (1905-1970). In terms of design, it is heavily inspired by the Sacré-Coeur in Paris with a mix of Art Deco and neo-Byzantine influences. The colourways are brick and grey (reinforced concrete) with green copper domes. The building is truly monumental with a central nave measuring 141m in length and a 33m wide cupola. Inside, there is a range of modern artworks, some from famous artists such as engravings by Joan Miró.

Access & Transport

The Basilica is 4km northwest of the city centre, in Koekelberg quarter. Tram 19 stops next to it a 'Bossaert-Basiliek' and bus 87 at the back. "Broustin' tram stop (9, 19), 300m away, provides extra optionality. The wheelchair accessible entrance is at the rear of the church (Door 6)

Instructions & Recommendations

There is the option of going up to the Panorama, right under the dome, 53m above ground. Price is 8€ per person. Opening hours are 09h00-17h30 in the summer season and 10h00-16h30 in the winter season.

Meta review

The church is listed as one of the main attractions in Brussels by most travel guides and blogs - unsurprisingly so given the spectacular size of the edifice. Online reviews are a little mixed however, pretty much everybody agrees it is worth seeing (and it is quite easy to reach by public transport) but besides the stained-glass windows, many visitors feel the interior is a little underwhelming in terms of atmosphere (not size). Recurring positive comments about the views from the Panorama area but this is beyond the scope of this review.

Environmental & Social

The running environmental footprint is low. Part of the city's artistic and architectural heritages

Conclusion

The Basilica is stunning in size, but it lacks the charm a more ornate interior and centuries of history would provide. Worth checking out, but not a must see, in our opinion.

Key positive

Striking profile

Well connected to public transport

Key negative

Feels a little empty and austere

Suitability

No religious denomination restrictions and accessible for visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Date for summer hours are not disclosed on the website

av. transport time:0h 35m

est. visit time:1h

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:May, 01

Season 1

MONDAY08:00 - 18:00

TUESDAY08:00 - 18:00

WEDNESDAY08:00 - 18:00

THURSDAY08:00 - 18:00

FRIDAY08:00 - 18:00

SATURDAY08:00 - 18:00

SUNDAY08:00 - 18:00

Start of Season 2:Oct, 01

Season 2

MONDAY08:00 - 17:00

TUESDAY08:00 - 17:00

WEDNESDAY08:00 - 17:00

THURSDAY08:00 - 17:00

FRIDAY08:00 - 17:00

SATURDAY08:00 - 17:00

SUNDAY08:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Free

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