Art Nouveau Walking Trail

Overview

Brussels is the world capital of Art Nouveau, and a self-guided walking trail through Saint-Gilles and Ixelles reveals dozens of remarkable facades by Victor Horta, Paul Hankar, and their contemporaries — four of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Highlights

• Horta Houses (UNESCO): Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay, Hôtel van Eetvelde, and the Horta Museum.
• Paul Hankar: The architect's own house (1893) on Rue Defacqz, considered the first Art Nouveau house in Brussels.
• Façade Details: Whiplash ironwork, sgraffito decoration, and coloured glass.

History

Brussels' Art Nouveau movement flourished 1893–1910. Victor Horta's Hôtel Tassel (1893) is widely considered the world's first Art Nouveau building.

Visitor Tips

• Map: Download the free Art Nouveau map from Visit Brussels.
• Spring: Best in spring when trees frame the facades.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.