Galerie 55

Once a bustling marketplace, Galerie 55 whispers tales of Brussels’ vibrant past. Galerie 55 stands as a charming arcade, a relic of a bygone era. It was originally part of the Marché de la Madeleine complex. This covered market, designed by Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer, opened in 1848. Galerie 55, with its magnificent glass roof, once housed a treasure trove of booksellers and antique shops. The air was thick with the scent of aged paper and leather, a haven for bibliophiles. Imagine searching for rare first editions and vintage prints within these historic walls. The gallery’s namesake, Pierre Bortier, acquired the land where the hospital once stood. His vision brought forth the Marché de la Madeleine and this beautiful gallery. Jean-Baptiste Moens, a prominent figure in philately, even had a shop here from 1853. The Madeleine market met its demise in 1957. It was replaced by a modern event hall. Only the original façade remains. Galerie 55, detached and neglected, faced closure. Thankfully, architects Paul and Marcel Mignot restored the gallery between 1974 and 1977. Galerie 55 experienced a renaissance, becoming a beloved haunt for book lovers. It offered an array of secondhand books, prints, and postcards. Sadly, this chapter ended in 2024. Most of the bookshops closed as Galerie 55 underwent a controversial transformation. It has since been renovated into a “gastronomic gallery”. Now, cafes and eateries fill the space where books once resided. Galerie 55 stands as a testament to Brussels’ ever-evolving urban landscape. It’s a place where the whispers of history mingle with the aromas of fine cuisine.