Opened in September 2022, the Prison of Haren stands as a modern marvel. This isn’t just any prison. The Prison of Haren is a “prison village,” a sprawling complex designed to hold over 1,000 inmates. It replaced three older prisons: Saint-Gilles, Forest, and Berkendael. Its unique design aims to create a more humane environment. The Prison of Haren boasts features like individual cells with amenities such as televisions, refrigerators, and even microwaves. The prison also has a “town hall,” sports hall, workshops, and a medical center. It was designed with rehabilitation in mind, offering various programs and activities for inmates. Interestingly, the prison is built on a mix of old industrial land and what was once a nature reserve. Despite its modern amenities, the Prison of Haren has faced controversy. Local residents initially opposed its construction, preferring a park on the site. The prison’s remote location, far from central Brussels, has also raised concerns about inmate isolation. The Prison of Haren also garnered attention when it housed high-profile inmates like Eva Kaili, a Greek MEP involved in the Qatargate scandal.
Rue Albert Meurice – Albert Meuricestraat
Serenity Bar a yoga studio sits on Rue Albert Meurice. This quiet street in Etterbeek Brussels holds a peaceful energy.