Brussels Stock Exchange

BrükselLocated in the heart of and keeping the pulse of the financial world from past to present, the Brussels Stock Exchange (Bourse de Bruxelles) is a stop that deserves to be discovered in terms of both history and architecture! Founded in 1801 by a decree of Napoleon, this historical structure has become a cultural icon, beyond being just a financial center. Today known as Euronext Brussels, the stock exchange draws attention with its BEL20 index, while the old Brussels Stock Exchange building (Palais de la Bourse) is impressive with its elegant architecture and central location. Rising along Anspach Boulevard, this structure is a must-see spot for travelers with its lively atmosphere and easy access (the Bourse/Beurs premetro station is right next to it!). Don't leave Brussels without visiting this unique structure!

Startup and Construction

Are you ready to travel back in time through the streets of Brussels that smell of history? One of the city’s iconic structures, the Brussels Stock Exchange (Bourse de Bruxelles) is not only a financial center, but also an important structure that has witnessed the transformation of Brussels. The foundations of the Stock Exchange were laid in 1801 by Napoleon’s decree, and the 19th century saw Brussels enter a new era with its economic growth. Its current magnificent building rose between 1868 and 1873 on Boulevard Anspach, on the site of a historic monastery and the old Butter Market.

This structure, built with the elegant touches of architect Léon-Pierre Suys, attracts the attention of not only the business world but also art and architecture enthusiasts. The Stock Exchange, which was opened with the participation of King Leopold II and Queen Marie Henriette, is seen as a symbol of the city's modernization process. The Place de la Bourse Square in front of the building is a meeting point and a perfect place for taking photos. If you happen to be in Brussels, don't forget to witness the fascinating past of this historical structure up close!

Renovation and Fire

The Brussels Stock Exchange building, which stands out with its history and grandeur, is a symbol not only of the past but also of change and innovation. This iconic structure, which has undergone many renovations over the years, was expanded from the 1930s to the 1950s, modernizing its lighting and use of space. However, a fire that occurred on the night of November 29, 1990 caused great damage to the ground floor of this elegant building. While the city was at risk of losing this historic structure, the Stock Exchange building was revived thanks to the meticulously carried out restoration work.

However, with the impact of digitalization, traditional market practices gradually came to an end and in 1996, all market activities were transferred to the digital environment. Today, the Brussels Stock Exchange building no longer welcomes visitors as a meeting point for financial transactions, but for history, art and architecture. The transformation story of the building is a mirror of Brussels' modernization process. Don't leave without discovering this magnificent structure that bears the traces of the past during your city tour!

From a Historical Transformation to a Taste Stop

Located in the heart of Brussels, the historic Stock Exchange building continues its journey, which began with mergers in the financial world in 1999, as a modern cultural center today. Merging with the Paris and Amsterdam stock exchanges in 2000 and taking the name Euronext Brussels, the Stock Exchange opened a new page in 2015, and this historic building transformed from the financial world into a cultural center of attraction.

The vacant building, which occasionally hosted exhibitions, gained a completely different identity with the renovation work that began in 2020. The Stock Exchange building, which was revived with the design of Robbrecht & Daem, Baneton-Garrino and Popoff, is today Belgium The Belgian Beer World Museum celebrates the cultural heritage of its beer and welcomes its visitors. The panoramic bar on the roof, covered with a brass awning, offers a unique experience for those who want to enjoy both the city view and Belgian beers.

For travelers who want to discover the historical and cultural richness of Brussels, this transformation story is one of the most enjoyable ways to understand the soul of the city!

The Magnificent Intersection of Art, Architecture and History

The old Stock Exchange building in the heart of Brussels is one of the city's most fascinating landmarks, not only financially but also architecturally and artistically. In French Palais de la Bourse, in Dutch Beurspaleis This structure, called the Place de la Bourse, is a striking part of Place de la Bourse, one of the most important squares in Brussels, which stretches along Boulevard Anspach.

The exterior is designed with inspiration from Palladian architecture and blends neo-Renaissance and Second Empire styles. This eclectic building, decorated with sculptures, reflects the influence of famous artists such as Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, Auguste Rodin and Guillaume de Groot. In particular, the allegorical figures symbolizing Art, Agriculture, Industry and Science and the two lion statues representing stock market trends are among the must-see details.

Inside, the main hall, where elegance and grandeur come together, dazzles with its Corinthian columns and large arched skylight filled with light. The pediment, adorned with Rodin's caryatid figures, attributes deep meaning to concepts such as Trade and Victory.

Don't leave Brussels without discovering this building that shines like a historical art gallery. Ideal for taking photos and spending time filled with art, this place reveals both the historical and aesthetic richness of the city.

The Brussels Stock Exchange is a unique stop for travelers who want to experience the city’s history, art and cultural richness all in one place. With its eclectic architecture, world-famous sculptures and stunning interior design, it is a must-see for those who want to discover the soul of Brussels. The building’s new function, the Belgian Beer World Museum, which celebrates Belgium’s beer culture, makes this experience even more special.

To learn about the other fascinating places Brussels has to offer and get more inspiration for planning your trip, Places to Visit in Brussels Don't forget to check out our article. This city is full of riches where you can touch both the past and the modern!