Named for a short-lived emperor, Parc Maximilien holds more stories than its green fields reveal. This park, a city oasis in Brussels, has a history far beyond a simple stroll. Let’s explore the story of Parc Maximilien.
Parc Maximilien got its name from Maximillian of Mexico. He was briefly the Emperor of Mexico. He was also the husband of Charlotte of Belgium, the only daughter of King Leopold I. Napoleon III encouraged Maximillian to become Emperor of Mexico in the 1860s. Maximillian ruled Mexico from 1864 to 1867. Republican troops executed him. The park was created in 1865 to honor Maximillian, who was still emperor at the time.
Before becoming a park, part of this land served as the Brussels-Groendreef goods station. This was between 1835 and 1954. Briefly, between 1953 and 1956, the park hosted a helihaven.
Today, Parc Maximilien offers more than just historical echoes. The park includes a children’s farm near the Yser metro stop. Here, you can find chickens, sheep, goats, rabbits, and donkeys.
In 2015, Parc Maximilien gained attention during a refugee crisis. A tent city arose in the park. It sheltered over 5,000 refugees from Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. This camp was across from the Immigration Office. In October 2015, authorities cleared the camp despite protests.
Looking ahead, Brussels plans a complete redesign of Parc Maximilien by 2025. A key feature of the redesign involves uncovering the Zenne River. The river will be exposed for 650 meters.
Parc Maximilien stands as a place of leisure. It is a place of animals and a place that has offered refuge. It is a place that is ever-changing. Take a moment to reflect on the layered past of Parc Maximilien. It is more than just a park. It is a testament to Brussels’ evolving story.