Perhaps a hidden gem within Brussels, Jette offers a unique blend of urban and rural charm. Today we will discover what makes Jette so special.
Jette is one of Brussels’ 19 municipalities. It sits in the north-western part of the region. Jette shares borders with the City of Brussels, Ganshoren, Koekelberg, and Molenbeek-Saint-Jean. It also borders the Flemish municipalities of Asse and Wemmel. Like all of Brussels’ municipalities, Jette is legally bilingual.
Did you know that Jette’s history stretches back to ancient times? Neolithic tools and Gallo-Roman villa remains have been found here. This proves that settlements existed in this area long ago. The first church dedicated to Saint Peter signals early Christian influence.
During the Middle Ages, parts of Jette were under the Duchy of Brabant’s feudal control. Dieleghem Abbey, founded in 1095, played a significant role. The monks initially followed Augustinian rules but switched to the Premonstratensian order in 1140. By the 13th century, the Abbey owned half of Jette. It held considerable social and economic power until the French Revolution.
In the 17th century, Jette was part of Merchtem. The Finance Minister under Archdukes Albert and Isabella acquired Rivieren Castle in nearby Ganshoren. The minister’s son transformed the estate into a county in 1654. This county included Jette and other neighboring villages.
The French Revolution brought drastic changes in the 1790s. Religious freedoms were curtailed. The monks were expelled from Dieleghem Abbey in 1796. Most of the Abbey buildings were demolished the following year. Only the abbot’s house remained.
In 1841, Ganshoren separated from Jette. Jette gradually transformed from a rural area into a Brussels suburb. Its population grew from around 10,000 in 1900 to over 40,000 in 1971.
Jette boasts a rich cultural and architectural heritage. The Municipal Hall of Jette, designed by Jules Van Ysendyck, dates back to the early 20th century. The abbot’s mansion of Dieleghem Abbey now serves as a historical museum.
Interestingly, Jette has preserved some old pubs and breweries. A blacksmith’s workshop operated here until 1960. The Renè Magritte Museum is located in the house where the famous painter lived and worked for 24 years. The Dutch-speaking university of Brussels, VUB, has its hospital and medical campus in Jette. The Jette railway station opened in 1892.
Jette is also known for its green spaces. The King Baudouin Park offers a large natural area. Here you can find the Molenbeek valley, Laerbeek woods, and Dieleghem wood.
Another unique sight in Jette is the replica of the Grotto of Lourdes. Built in 1915, it became a popular pilgrimage site during World War I.
As our tour concludes, remember Jette. It is a municipality with a rich history, cultural attractions and green spaces. Its blend of urban and rural elements creates a unique atmosphere. Jette offers something for everyone to enjoy.