Art nouveau and Art Deco in the Marolles

The history of the Marolles, this iconic working-class neighbourhood of Brussels stretching from the Church of Our Lady of the Chapel to the Halle Gate, dates back to the 12th century. In the second half of the 19th century, this neighbourhood underwent significant changes in lifestyle and housing, which were reflected in the urban planning and architecture of its public and social facilities: Rue Blaes replaced a number of unsanitary dead-end streets. School complexes, social housing and healthcare centres were built on the basis of urban planning and political projects, combining the aesthetics and moral values of the time. The result is a wide variety of styles, reflecting developments in Belgian architecture from the late 19th century to the Second World War. From Rue Blaes to Rue des Minimes, this tour invites you to discover the characteristics of Art Nouveau and Art Deco in relation to their eras through a workers’ housing estate, a hospital, two schools and an artist’s studio.