What if a river could vanish? The story of the Aa in Brussels is entwined with the tale of a disappearing river. This is the story of the Senne.
Once upon a time, Brussels thrived thanks to the Senne. Around the year 1000 people began settling on the banks of the Senne. The river was essential for commerce. Mills harnessed the river’s energy.
As Brussels grew, the river became overwhelmed. The Senne became a receptacle for wastewater. By the 19th century, it was an open sewer. Terrible smells and diseases spread. Floods became more frequent.
In 1867, Mayor Jules Anspach took drastic action. He oversaw the covering of the Senne. The river was encased in giant underground pipes. New constructions rose above ground.
The first phase of this project began in 1871. It addressed health and flooding issues in northern and central Brussels. But other parts of the city were left out.
A second project started in 1930 and finished in 1955. It sealed the Senne into underground collectors in all districts. The river vanished from view.
For many years the Senne was one of Belgium’s most polluted rivers. All waste from Brussels went directly into it. But in 2007, new sewage treatment plants began to fix this problem.
The covering of the Senne allowed for urban renewal. Modern buildings and grand boulevards were built. Brussels transformed into the city we see today.
Interestingly, the covering of the Senne had a cultural impact. Residents earned the nickname “Zinneke”. This term described the stray dogs near the river. The Zinneke Parade celebrates Brussels’ multiculturalism.
Recently, efforts have been made to uncover parts of the Senne. A 200-metre section was reopened. The aim is to bring nature back to the city and improve biodiversity.
The reopened Senne is now a clean waterway. Lush vegetation lines its banks. Fish have returned.
The story of the Aa shows how cities evolve. Brussels transformed itself by burying its river. Now, it seeks to revive that buried past, and the Aa’s transformation is not yet over.