A trapezoidal green space. That’s Square François Riga. It sits nestled between busy avenues. This isn’t just any square. This is a hidden gem in Schaerbeek. It’s a place where history whispers through the leaves.
Square François Riga is more than just a pretty place. It’s a tribute to Pierre François Riga. He was a Belgian composer and violinist. He lived and died in Schaerbeek. The square bears his name. It’s a small but meaningful tribute.
The square’s design isn’t accidental. It was part of a larger plan. The Monplaisir-Helmet neighborhood was redesigned. Engineer Octave Houssa created the plan in 1904. The square was completed between 1909 and 1910. This was a time of significant urban development. The square reflects the careful planning of the era.
More than just buildings and streets surround the square. A remarkable monument stands nearby. It remembers Congolese soldiers. They fought under the Belgian flag. The memorial specifically recalls the battles of Redjaf Tabora and Saïo. Nine smaller stones represent other campaigns. These are smaller but equally important reminders of this history. Every year a ceremony takes place here. It’s a sobering reflection on a complex past.
The trees are also noteworthy. Seven are considered remarkable. These include horse chestnuts and Pterocarya fraxinifolia. These majestic trees offer shade. They add beauty to this already lovely space. A tradition of planting a new tree every year for the Schaerbeek carnival existed. However it stopped in 2009.
Even the houses around the square tell a story. They range in styles. You can see eclectic and Beaux-Arts architecture. Art Deco houses are also present. These reflect the changing architectural tastes of the early 20th century. The buildings surrounding the square are a visual timeline. They demonstrate the evolution of architectural styles in Brussels.
A weekly market adds to the square’s vibrancy. Every Monday morning vendors fill the square. They extend along Avenue Huart Hamoir. It’s one of five weekly markets in Schaerbeek. The sounds and smells create a busy atmosphere. It’s a true Schaerbeek experience.
Finally there’s a planned metro station. It will be named after this little square. This shows its importance to the neighborhood. It’s a lasting testament to its place within Schaerbeek’s identity. Square François Riga. It’s a quiet corner of Brussels. It has a rich and fascinating story to tell.