“Alsemberg? Where’s that?” someone mutters. The Chaussée d’Alsemberg, or Alsembergsesteenweg, isn’t just a road. It’s a journey through time and communities. This long avenue stretches from Brussels into Flanders and Wallonia. It becomes the N235 national road.
The Chaussée d’Alsemberg begins at the Saint-Gilles barrier. It winds through Saint-Gilles, Forest, and Uccle in Brussels. Then, it passes through Drogenbos, Linkebeek, and Beersel. Finally, it reaches Alsemberg. There, it transforms into Brusselsesteenweg.
For a large part of its Brussels stretch, the tram line 18 ran here. It was a fixture from 1968 onwards. Imagine the clatter of the tram. Picture the street bustling with life around it.
Beyond Alsemberg, near Braine-l’Alleud, it becomes the Chaussée d’Alsemberg again. Here, you will find L’Ermite Church. Nearby is the Château de l’Hermite. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the Sept Fontaines golf course.
Why “Alsemberg”? The road is named after the Alsemberg section it leads to. But its story goes back much further than its name suggests.
In the 1500s, a simple path existed here. Between 1726 and 1730, they created a road between Saint-Gilles and Calevoet. Then, in 1744, it was extended to Alsemberg. So, the Chaussée d’Alsemberg has evolved over centuries.
Keep an eye out for notable buildings. Au vieux spijtigen duivel is one of the oldest establishments in the Brussels region. Also, the Domaine du Rondenbos in Alsemberg.
Here at number 951 Chaussée d’Alsemberg, stands a house. This was a former industrial building that has been transformed. Now, it’s a passive house with a workspace. The project focused on circularity.
During the renovation mineral construction materials were used. These came from Brussels construction site debris. Clay plaster adorns the walls. Rammed earth forms the floors. The owner reused existing materials creatively. A steel frame now creates new living spaces.
The Chaussée d’Alsemberg is more than just a road. It’s a testament to Brussels’ rich history and constant evolution. It connects communities. It showcases architectural innovation. Next time you travel this route, remember its long and fascinating past.