Behold the majestic Cinquantenaire Arch rising proudly before us. This is the Parc du Cinquantenaire or Jubelpark. It is a vast urban park with a rich history. Today let’s journey back in time and uncover the story of this iconic landmark.
Imagine Brussels in 1880. Belgium was celebrating its 50th anniversary of independence. King Leopold II envisioned a grand exhibition to showcase the nation’s achievements. The chosen site was part of the military exercise ground outside the city center. It was named Cinquantenaire French for Fiftieth Anniversary. In Dutch, it was Jubelpark Jubilee Park.
For the National Exhibition of 1880, the plain was transformed into an exhibition space. The Cinquantenaire Arcade was planned to commemorate the anniversary. Only the bases of the arch’s columns were completed that year. The rest of the arch was constructed from wooden panels for the exhibition.
The monument’s completion became a battle between King Leopold II and the Belgian Government. The government hesitated to spend the necessary funds. The park also hosted the Brussels International Exposition of 1897. The existing buildings’ wings were extended for this event. The arch however remained incomplete.
Gédéon Bordiau was the original architect. He dedicated nearly twenty years to the project. The structures were built with iron, glass and stone. These materials symbolized Belgium’s economic and industrial strength. Construction was halted in 1890 due to lack of funds. Bordiau’s death in 1904 brought further delays.
Charles Girault a French architect succeeded him. Leopold II chose Girault. He redesigned the arch from a single to a triple arch. Construction proceeded around the clock to complete it. In May 1905, the monument was finished with private funding. Leopold II inaugurated the arcade on September 27 1905. This was just in time for the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence. The planned triumphal arch was amended and expanded to fulfill the king’s wishes.
The Cinquantenaire Arch stands as the centerpiece. It is a monumental triple arch. A bronze quadriga tops it. The sculpture depicts Brabant Raising the National Flag. Jules Lagae and Thomas Vincotte created it. Other sculptures represent Belgian provinces.
Today the Cinquantenaire complex houses three museums. The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History occupies the northern half. It has been there since 1880. The Art and History Museum is in the southern half. It has been there since 1889. Autoworld a vintage car museum joined in 1986.
In the north-western corner you find the Great Mosque of Brussels. The Temple of Human Passions and the Monument to the Belgian Pioneers in Congo are nearby.
The surrounding park esplanade has served various purposes. It has hosted military parades and drive-in movies. The park has also been a filming location for movies and music videos. The 20 km of Brussels an annual run starts here.
The Parc du Cinquantenaire is more than just a park. It is a symbol of Belgian history achievement and resilience. Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the arch. Explore the museums and wander through the gardens. The Parc du Cinquantenaire offers a glimpse into Belgium’s past and present.