Belgium, a country renowned for its centuries-old beer culture, has once again reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and celebrating its liquid heritage. On September 9, 2023, the Belgian Beer World will open its doors to welcome beer enthusiasts and curious visitors. Housed within the iconic Brussels Stock Exchange building, this sprawling 12,000-square-meter facility promises an immersive, interactive experience, providing a special place devoted to the discovery and appreciation of Belgium’s beloved brews, one that showcases how Belgian beer has left an indelible mark on the four corners of the globe.
1. A heritage of unrivaled significance
Belgian beer culture holds a hallowed position, being recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This status acknowledges the profound impact that beer has had on the Belgian way of life, spanning from everyday pleasures to grand celebrations. The heritage continues to thrive, thanks to the creativiy of brewers, the richness of ingredients, and the diversity of brewing techniques.
2. A journey through time and taste
The heart of Belgian Beer World is its interactive discovery center, a sensory journey that explores the origins of Belgian beer dating back to the Middle Ages. This captivating narrative will also include the transformation of beer, crafted with the expertise of a hundred brewers, that will showcase the evolution of beer making, revealing the secrets that have been passed down through generations.
Visitors will have the opportunity to delve into the brewing process through multi-sensory workshops. Here, they will explore a multitude of aromas and flavors, guided by the type of beer, ingredients, color, and more. It’s an authentic yet high-tech experience, perfectly encapsulating the essence of Belgian beer craftsmanship.
Belgian Beer World doesn’t stop at the brewery floor. It extends upwards to the Stock Exchange’s rooftop, offering panoramic views from a 350-square-meter terrace hosting the Skybar. With a drink in hand, patrons can toast to Belgian beer against the backdrop of Brussels’ skyline.
On the ground floor, beer aficionados can bring home a piece of their experience from the Beer Shop, which boasts a curated selection of beers and unique gifts. Meanwhile, in the basement, history enthusiasts can explore the remains of a former Franciscan monastery and pay homage to Gambrinus, the legendary medieval knight and symbol of beer drinkers, whose tomb rests there.
Belgian beer, in all its rich diversity and heritage, unites the people of Brussels, Wallonia, and Flanders. It’s a culture that grows with each generation and is celebrated as an integral part of Belgian identity. With Belgian Beer World, this cultural treasure has found a fitting sanctuary, a step to ensure that the legacy of Belgian beer will continue to inspire, enrich, and captivate for generations to come.
The realization of Belgian Beer World required an investment of €10 million.
Tickets are priced as follows:
- Adults: €17.00
- Seniors (60+): €14.00
- Students (16-25): €14.00
- Children (12-15): €12.00
- Children (4-11): €8.00
- Children (0-3): €0.00
