Did you know Koekelberg is the smallest municipality in Brussels? Its area is just over one square kilometer. Now look up. You are standing before the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart. It is also known as the Koekelberg Basilica. This basilica dominates the skyline of Koekelberg. It is one of the largest Catholic churches in the world.
Completed in 1969, the Koekelberg Basilica blends Art Deco and neo-Byzantine styles. Its design is unique. The architect Albert Van Huffel from Gent created it.
The basilica offers a panoramic view of Brussels. From the cupola, you can see the city and its outskirts. It’s a breathtaking sight. The Koekelberg Basilica is not just a church. It is a minor basilica and a parish church.
Koekelberg’s history goes back centuries. In 1841, Koekelberg became its own municipality. Before that, it was part of Berchem-Sainte-Agathe. The area evolved from a small village to a vibrant part of Brussels.
The Municipal Hall of Koekelberg is another point of interest. It is on the Place Henri Vanhuffel. The hall was built in 1882. In 1938, it got an Art Deco facade. Henri-Aimé Jacobs designed it.
Don’t miss the Lefever House. It is an Art Nouveau townhouse. Fernand Lefever built it in 1913. Since 2006, it has been a protected monument.
Koekelberg offers green spaces too. Elisabeth Park and Victoria Park provide a refreshing break. These parks are perfect for a stroll.
Koekelberg is known for innovation. In 1820, Jean-Baptiste Cellier-Blumenthal experimented with his column still here. This led to the modern column still. Also, the first whisky produced in Brussels comes from Koekelberg.
The current mayor of Koekelberg is Ahmed Laaouej. He is a member of the PS party. His coalition includes Ecolo-Groen and Alternative Humaniste.
The municipality has several partnerships. These include Bastenaken, Ieper and Kelmis in Belgium. Also Aeghion in Greece and Bournemouth in Great Britain. Borsele in the Netherlands, Glostrup in Denmark and Santarem in Portugal.
Koekelberg has its own giant. It is called Raimundo. The giant represents Raymond Goethals. He was a famous football coach. The Manne van de Platou created the giant. They promote Brussels dialect and folklore.
The Koekelberg Basilica stands as a symbol. It represents the blend of history, culture and innovation. Take a moment to appreciate its grandeur. Remember the stories of this unique municipality.