Fancy a trip on the metro? We are standing at Stockel Stokkel. It is more than just a metro stop. It is a vibrant hub in Woluwe-Saint-Pierre.
Stockel Stokkel is the eastern end of metro line 1. The station opened in 1988 on August 31. This marked a new era for this Brussels neighbourhood.
But Stockel’s story goes back much further. In 940, the Count of Flanders gave this land away. He gifted it to his son-in-law, the Count of Wijnen. The Wijnen family ruled Stockel for centuries. They kept power until the 12th century.
Let us imagine Stockel long ago. It was a part of the Sonian Forest. A large farm stood where Rue de la Ferme is today. This is near Place Dumon. A sunken path connected Hoog-Kraainem to Stockel. People went there for firewood and hunting.
Place Dumon is the heart of Stockel. It is the area’s lively center. From here, the old part of Stockel runs north. It goes along the Rue de l’Église.
Now, let’s talk about Stockel metro station itself. You will find amazing art here. The walls show over 140 characters from Tintin. Hergé made the sketches shortly before he passed away. Studio Hergé drew the figures. It is a unique tribute to a beloved comic book.
Outside the station is Stockel Square. This shopping center has many stores. You can find clothing, jewelry, and food. There is also a cinema called Le New Stockel. So, Stockel offers much more than just transport.
Interestingly, Stockel once belonged to Woluwe-Saint-Lambert parish. This lasted until the 18th century. The area stretched far. It went from Avenue de Tervueren to Avenue Hebron in Kraainem.
A religious building was erected in 1962. The Notre-Dame de Stockel church features a modern style. René Aerts and Paul Ramon designed it.
The number 41 tram used to run from Stockel to Woluwe. Now, line 39 has replaced it. The Stockel metro station serves the area. It connects it to the city.
So, next time you are at Stockel Stokkel, remember its story. Think of counts and forests. Imagine Tintin’s characters. Appreciate the modern vibe of this Brussels corner. It is a place where history and modernity meet. Stockel Stokkel is not just a station. It is a destination.