“Why is this place triangular?” someone asks, gazing around. This is the Marie-Joséplein. It is a unique square in Ixelles. The Marie-Joséplein sits at the crossroads of several important avenues. These include the Avenue du Pesage. Also, there is the Terkamerenboslaan. You will also find the Derbylaan and the Air Marshal Coninghamlaan.
Let’s delve into the origins of the Marie-Joséplein. Its design was conceived as part of the 1907 plan for the Boondaal district. Subsequent planning initiatives embraced this design. These plans were formalized in royal decrees issued between 1907 and 1937.
The Marie-Joséplein owes its name to a notable figure. It is named in honor of Princess Marie-José of Belgium. She lived from 1906 to 2001. Marie-José was the daughter of King Albert I. She later became the last Queen of Italy.
Historically, the Marie-Joséplein featured modest houses. These dwellings resembled those found on the outer edges of the Waaglaan. Today, the square’s architecture reflects the styles of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
The Marie-Joséplein once played a vital role in Brussels’ tram network. It served as a terminus. It was near the Café du Lac. Petrus Vandenbranden built this café in 1865 on his land. An old waiting house still stands. It likely dates back to the 1930s. The waiting house gained protected status as a monument on April 20, 2006.
This small structure is mostly glass. It features a base of blue stone. Its frame consists of cast iron and wrought iron. The roof is zinc. Wooden trim borders the roof.
Getting to the Marie-Joséplein is straightforward. Several public transportation options are available. Tram lines 8 and 25 serve the square. Bus lines 41, 71, 95, and R36 also stop nearby. The closest tram stop is Marie-José. It is a one-minute walk away.
In 2019, a rarely used tram loop was removed. It had been part of the former terminus. This change occurred after line 93 was shortened. A new terminus was established at Boondael.
Today, the Marie-Joséplein is more than just a transport hub. It is a tribute to a Belgian princess. It is a place where history and modern life converge. Take a moment to appreciate the layers of history. This triangular square has witnessed many changes. It has evolved into the space we see today.