Have you ever imagined a Brussels farm surviving urban sprawl? Welcome to Ferme Den Bels-Hoeve Den Bels a remarkable piece of rural history nestled in the heart of the city.
Ferme Den Bels-Hoeve Den Bels is more than just a farm. It’s a testament to Brussels’ agricultural past. This 17th-century farm is one of the last remaining examples of rural architecture within the city limits. Its location wasn’t accidental. The surrounding land boasted rich fertile soil ideal for farming.
Historically the farm’s fields stretched to the Beyseghem stream. A fascinating detail is that in 1935 a portion of the western property was lost. This was due to the stream’s canalization and the creation of Rue du Pâturage. The farm’s history is intertwined with the city’s development. It’s a tangible link to a Brussels that no longer exists.
The farm’s buildings tell a story. The main buildings cluster around a square courtyard. The upper parts of the barn and its framework were rebuilt in the 19th century. However the rest of the structures retain an original character. A separate structure houses a bakery dating back to 1887. This shows the farm’s scale. Many farms had their own ovens. It demonstrates their self-sufficiency.
Ferme Den Bels-Hoeve Den Bels wasn’t just a place of work. It was a vibrant part of the community. The farm was active until the 1960s. It comprised larger fields that were later divided. Only the buildings and a beautiful orchard survive. The orchard is down the slope across from Rue du Pâturage. The city of Brussels acquired the farm in March 2009. This was an important decision to preserve its heritage.
The city’s careful restoration reflects its importance. The simple improvements are meant to evoke the character of farms from that era. The careful selection of plants is essential. The chosen plants recreate a rural atmosphere. The open spaces allow for activities like a vegetable garden. There are also small fruit plots meadows and a high-stem orchard.
Ferme Den Bels-Hoeve Den Bels stands as a powerful symbol. It is a symbol of Brussels’ changing landscape. It reminds us of a time when farming was central to city life. It continues to be a beautiful green space a peaceful retreat and a historic treasure. This is Ferme Den Bels-Hoeve Den Bels a glimpse into Brussels’ rural past. A past that refuses to be forgotten.