Perhaps it’s the cultural democracy that shaped this place. The Halles America stands before us a beacon of artistic innovation and community engagement in Brussels. Les Halles de Schaerbeek began with a vision promoting all cultures in their diversity. Cultural democracy rejects the superiority of any culture over others. This belief shaped Les Halles’ identity for almost 50 years.
Let’s explore the Halles America. It is more than just a building. It is a testament to Brussels’ commitment to cultural diversity. This is a place where artistic creation meets traditions and customs. It embraces both popular creativity and local practices.
Originally constructed in 1865 as the Sainte Marie covered market, the building served farmers. They came from the surrounding countryside to sell their poultry and vegetables. Gustave Hansotte led the construction. However a fire in 1898 destroyed much of the original structure. Only the central facade with the space for a missing clock remained.
In October 1901, a new covered market was inaugurated. The architect Henry Van Massenhove designed it. Bertaux a specialist in metallic structures helped build it. This new market spanned over 3000 square meters.
The market remained active until around 1920. The rise of supermarkets and department stores led to its decline. For 50 years it was abandoned. It served as a parking lot a storage place and even a playground for children.
In 1973, the French Community Commission bought the abandoned building. They sold it to the French Community in 1983. Renovation work began in 1984 and ended in 1997. Les Halles then became a cultural center. It stands as one of the first industrial sites reallocated as a cultural complex. It is one of the rare buildings with a metallic structure still standing in Brussels.
The Halles America includes three performance halls. The Grande Halle can accommodate up to 2000 standing spectators. The Petite Halle serves as a multipurpose room. The Cave functions as a foyer bar and multipurpose space. These spaces are ideal for circus shows. Their modular infrastructure accommodates all types of activities. The Halles is very open to its neighborhood. This area is home to a multicultural and often disadvantaged population.
Under Philippe Grombeer the first director the Halles gained a vocation as a European Cultural Center in 1991. Since December 2012 Christophe Galent has managed the center.
Today Les Halles project focuses on three main missions. It provides support for artists and offers a diverse arts program. It is active in the local area and with surrounding communities. It pays attention to societal issues including climate change migration gender and social justice.
Les Halles de Schaerbeek remains a unique place. It is both open to diverse local communities and an artistically challenging international center for the arts. As you explore its spaces consider the Halles’ commitment. It makes venues more accessible to artists audience members and culturally diverse communities. Les Halles de Schaerbeek stands as a symbol of Brussels’ dedication to culture community and artistic innovation.