Overlooking Brussels with its monumental silhouette, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg stands as the largest Art Deco building in the world. This giant of concrete and terracotta tells the story of a century of architectural challenges, marked by the audacityof Albert Van Huffel and the turmoil of two world wars. Within its walls, adorned with Expressionist sculptures and the brilliance of eclectic stained-glass windows, the monument hides unexpected treasures. From its bustling basement levels to its breathtaking panoramic view of the capital, discover how this legacy of Leopold II has been transformed into a vibrant cultural center, proud of its ranking among the world’s greatest churches.
The Koekelberg Basilica: a one-of-a-kind Art Deco masterpiece
The history of the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is one of royal ambition transformed by time. Although Leopold II laid the cornerstone in 1905 with the dream of a neo-Gothic Pantheon to mark the anniversary of independence, it would take nearly a century for the project to be completed. In the meantime, the project was entrusted to the winner of the Grand Prix d’Architecture, Albert Van Huffel, who replaced the neo-Gothic foundations with an innovative Art Deco structure made of reinforced concrete, clad in glazed terracotta that lends the monument a unique interior warmth.
The Basilica thus stands as the result of a close collaboration between Van Huffel, engineer Paul Rome, and sculptor Harry Elstrøm. Together, they created a veritable “city within a city ”: hidden beneath the monumental nave are a theater, a crypt, and meeting rooms. The interior is enhanced by a collection of stained-glass windows created by the greatest glass artists of the 20th century. Expressionist sculptures and Symbolist works further cement this sanctuary’s status as an exceptional repository of Belgian modern art.
Heritage and Culture: The Astonishing Life of the Basilica
A majestic center for gathering and sharing, the Basilica transcends its religious function to establish itself as a vibrant cultural hub. Within its walls, two spaces complement each other: the Museum of the Black Sisters, which displays 20th-century gold and silverware, and the Museum of Modern Religious Art, boasting a rich collection of paintings and sculptures from the Diocese of Bruges. For history enthusiasts, multilingual guided tours reveal the building’s secrets, from its Art Deco architecture to its liturgical treasure, which is unique in Belgium.
The visitor experience reaches its peak at a height of 52.80 meters, on the outdoor gallery located beneath the dome. This breathtaking panorama offers a 360-degree view of Brussels and the provinces of Brabant. Even more surprising, the basement levels are teeming with activity: a theater, reception halls, and even the restaurant “Le Basilic,” which features live performances and welcoming Belgian cuisine. From historic events—such as Pope Francis’s visit in 2024 —to serving as a film set, Koekelberg has established itself as an iconic fixture of Brussels life.
📍Basiliekvoorplein 1, 1083 Brussels, Belgium
