Brussels Renaissance Festival

Guided tour of the Halle Gate on the occasion of the Brussels Renaissance Festival

The Brussels Renaissance Festival offers a series of events that showcase European heritage and history during the Renaissance. The festival highlights the important role of Brussels during this period. Charles V, the most powerful sovereign of the 16th century, had Brussels as his main residence. This city, where he received his first inheritance in 1515, has since become the capital of 500 million Europeans.

An exceptional monument

The Halle Gate is a fairy-tale monument of over 600 years old. It is the last vestige of the second stage of fortifications that used to surround Brussels. First a gate, later remodelled to resemble a medieval castle, today a museum! Step inside and (re)discover a stunning collection of artworks that, together with the building itself, tells the story of Brussels - ancient city at the crossroads of Europe. Admire the so-called cradle of Emperor Charles V and its beautiful decoration, a parade armour of Archduke Albert VII and a necklace of the Nivelles arquebusier guild.
 

Panorama & VR view of Brussels in the 16th century

The walkway at the top of the monument offers a stunning 360° view of modern Brussels. Through the VR binoculars you can also experience what the city and its surrounding countryside looked like in the 16th century, when painter Pieter Bruegel the Elder lived here. At the time, Brussels was a typical medieval city along the river Senne, with its narrow streets and numerous churches, as well as a Galgenberg, “gallows hill”, and impressive fortifications. The virtual panorama was meticulously designed using historical maps, cadastral plans, old engravings and drawings. 

Dates: Sun 19.06 & 3.07.22 at 2pm

Note! Language of the tour is French or Dutch

Price: 13 / 11 €

Buy your ticket online. If tickets are still available on the day of the visit, they can be purchased at the Halle Gate ticket office.