Basilica Koekelberg, Brussels
The Art Deco Basilica of Koekelberg in Brussels. Photo under GFDL.
Front view of the Basilica in autumn. Photo
Hector Fabio Hurtado.
Aerial view of the Basilica of Koekelberg. Image courtesy Google Earth.
Location map and aerial view of Basilica Koekelberg. For a larger interactive view, see our Brussels Map.
The National Basilica of Koekelberg is a huge Art Deco church in Brussels, built to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence.
History
In 1905 King Leopold II laid the cornerstone of the basilica. Construction was interrupted by the two World Wars and wasn't finished until 1971.
The basilica is dedicated to the Sacred Heart, like the more famous and equally patriotic Basilique Sacré-Coeur in Paris. The more common name "Basilica of Koekelberg" derives from its location in the Koekelberg area of Brussels.
What to See
Faced in brick, the Art Deco church is 89m high and 167m long, making it the fifth-largest church in the world. The main dome, flanked by two towers, can be climbed in summer for excellent views over Brussels.
Quick Facts
| Site Information | |
| Names: | Basilica Koekelberg; National Basilica of the Sacred Heart; Basilique Sacré-Coeur |
| Location: | Brussels, Belgium |
| Faith: | Christianity |
| Denomination: | Catholic |
| Dedication: | Sacred Heart |
| Category: | Churches |
| Architecture: | Art Deco |
| Date: | 1905-71 |
| Architect: | Albert Van Huffel |
| Features: | Largest |
| Status: | active |
| Visitor Information | |
| Address: | Parvis de la Basilique 1, Koekelberg, Brussels |
| Coordinates: | 50.867274° N, 4.316661° E (view on Google Maps) |
| Lodging: | View hotels near this location |
| Phone: | None |
| Website: | www.basilicakoekelberg.be/ |
| Public transport: | Metro: Line 1A and 2, Station Simonis Tram: 19 |
| Parking: | Free parking |
Travel Resources
- Brussels Map - our detailed interactive map of Brussels, plus hand-picked links to more
- Brussels Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, and book at the guaranteed lowest price
- Brussels Guided Tours - sightseeing tours and activities in Brussels
- Brussels Car Rentals - get the lowest rate by comparing multiple car companies at a glance
- Brussels Restaurant Reviews - the best places to eat in town
Article Sources
- Basilique Nationale de Koekelberg - Fodors.com
Last updated on February 11, 2011.
