World Fairs tend to leave their landmarks that we still enjoy today. 1958 left the Atomium to Brussels, a large stainless-steel model of a cubic unit cell of an iron crystal. Viewing platform included.

The construction represents the Atomic age and the enthusiasm about peaceful use of nuclear energy. Well we all know how well that panned out…

The EGG is the newest addition to the European Quarter, it has a large oval shape inside the outer walls and provides spaces for conferences and events.

Buildings in this area are mostly recognizable by their large glass panels and sleek looks. And the flags everywhere, of course. Why are there statues of ostriches burying their heads in the sand. Quite unsettling as they are in front of the European Parliament…

The Plenary is open for visitors several times a day. It is a lot shorter than I would have thought, though. The audioguide only provides a very brief introduction to the room and that is the only view you get.

There is more to see at the Parlamentarium or the House of European History, both very modern, interactive museums educating about Europe and how the EU came to be. I would have liked a bit more emphasis on recent European events, but of course, first and second world war are very important for understanding European history.

You can spend hours and hours in either of the museums, and the best part is that it is free, woohoo!

 

February 26th 2018