One of the few remains of the medieval fortifications of the city of Brussels, the Porte de Hal (Halle Gate) is about to be transformed into an interactive museum to increase the site’s appeal for visitors and arise their interest in the city’s history.
Dating back to the 14th century (1381-1383), the Porte de Hal stands as a landmark of the architectural prowess of the Middle Ages. Nestled along Brussels’ Inner Ring, between Place Louise and the Midi Train Station, its distinctive silhouette stands out amidst the contemporary cityscape. The building has witnessed the passage of time, undergoing several modifications and serving various purposes. Its thick walls once harboured a state prison, but the 19th century heralded the transformation of the gate into a museum and a wave of modernisations to increase accessibility to the grandiose neo-Gothic building.
The announcement of the renovation project, dubbed “Porte de Hal 2.0”, came on Monday, 29 April, following the signing of a cooperation agreement by the Belgian federal government, the City of Brussels, the Brussels-Capital Region, the Royal Museums of Art and History and the non-profit association Paleis van Keizer Karel, currently managing the Coudenberg Palace.
This building is a place full of history, but we want to give it a new soul. It will be a gateway to our folklore.
Delphine Houba, Brussels councillor responsible for culture and tourism
Following an extensive public consultations, the strategic renovation plan includes the transformation of the museum into an interactive space that highlights Brussels’ intangible heritage and folklore, while ensuring safety and welcoming atmosphere of the museum’s surroundings, said Minister-President for the Brussels-Capital Region, Rudi Vervoort.
The initiative demonstrates a profound commitment to rejuvenating the museum and its current collection, which centres on the Middle Ages and Renaissance in Brussels. While preserving the collection, efforts will be made to present it in a more engaging manner, particularly geared towards families and children.
The museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions will emphasize national traditions such as the falling tree procession ofMeyboom and the UNESCO-recognized Ommegang parade. Leveraging technology and interactive installations, the collections will offer new perspectives on medieval Brussels, aiming to showcase the city’s popular culture and provide insights into medieval life around Porte de Hal. Moreover, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of the old fortifications. Plans also include a shop and café, where guests will be able to taste traditional Gueuze beer or immerse themselves in Belgian folklore.
The definitive plan for Porte de Hal 2.0 is anticipated by late 2024, with an opening date yet to be set. Meanwhile, the museum located within the building, which exhibits medieval artifacts, is currently undergoing renovations, but remains open to welcome visitors.
