From 17 June to 8 July 2023, the Brussels Renaissance Festival is set to offer a series of events that showcase European heritage and history. The Renaissance period was the most prosperous period of Brussels‘ history. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V ruled over much of Europe, an empire over which it was said ‘the sun never set’.
The most influential figure in European politics chose Brussels as his main residence. The result was an effervescence that permeated all domains: diplomatic, cultural, artistic, etc. It was, it some ways, the first tentative steps towards the construction of a united Europe which would see Brussels become the capital of 500 million Europeans.
The Brussels Renaissance Festival (BRF) is the annual rendezvous for anyone wanting to relive this particularly glorious period of Brussels’ history. For three weeks, young and old alike can plunge head first into 16th century European history. Festive, cultural and family activities are organized through the three-week festival in different locations across the Brussels Capital Region. Visits, activities and walks will be organized during the festivities.
1. The Ommegang
Imagine a procession of some 1400 costumed participants, the Grand-Place resplendent thanks to a light show and countless activities inspired by the Renaissance (including an impressive flag-throwing ceremony!). Combining folklore and history, the Ommegang takes us back to 1549, the date of the Joyous Entry into Brussels of Charles V and his son Philip (the future Philip II). For a single, splendid evening, Brussels re-enacts this grandiose episode in a breathtaking production.
The origins of the Ommegang Pageant are found in the 14th century. When it first took place, it was a procession in honour of Our Lady of the Sablon, organized by the Grand Confraternity (“Serment”) of Crossbowmen. Quite soon thereafter the different guilds and bodies constituting the City joined the processions which then developed into a primarily secular, municipal event. The pageant taking place in 1549 is one of the most famous examples.
At that year’s event Emperor Charles V (“Charles Quint”) visited this region of his Empire and officially introduced his son and successor, the future Phillip II. For these types of gala event, cities spared no expense to show themselves off in the very best of lights. And Brussels did just that on this occasion by organising one of the most resplendent of Ommegang processions ever undertaken.
2. Family-friendly program
Most activities are suitable for the whole family. From guided tours of Anderlecht’s Saint Guido Church, the City of Brussels Town Hall, the Marbles and the Maison du Roi/Broodhuis, to exhibitions at the Rouge Cloitre/Rood Klooster or a real city game. 8 July will be Renaissance Day at the Maison du Roi/Broodhuis with guided tours and Renaissance music.
A Family Day will also be held this year, on 18 June, giving families the chance to immerse themselves in the Renaissance atmosphere with costume parties and workshops. Children will be able to enter the remains of Charles V’s palace and discover the splendor of the Renaissance. During the Family Day, they will have the chance to dress up as a knight or lady of the court, take part in themed workshops and even practice shooting with a crossbow or wielding a sword.
3. BRF at the Royal Library of Belgium
The Brussels Renaissance Festival highlights the role of Brussels in European history. At the end of the Middle Ages, Brussels belonged to the rich and powerful Dukes of Burgundy. Skilled politicians and cultured patrons, they established a stirring treasure, a unique and fascinating collection of manuscripts: the Library of the Dukes of Burgundy.
Many of these masterpieces have survived the ravages of time and of history. They are now preserved at KBR. Grab your chance this summer and visit the KBR museum. Through lectures, workshops and culinary delights, you will discover the fragrances and colors of the 15th century at KBR.
4. Visits of the Brussels City Hall
The building consists of two stylistically very different parts. The first (Gothic) was built in the 15th century and is the only existing medieval remains of the Grand-Place. The second, the classical-style extension at the rear of the building was built in the 18th century. Two tour options are available as of 1 February. These new routes allow visitors to discover areas of the Town Hall which were not previously accessible to the public.
The traditional route: this allows you to learn more about the context of the different periods of construction of the building by observing the main façade overlooking the Grand Place and the courtyard.
Visitors then enter the Town Hall to admire the ceremonial offices, all the main rooms and the galleries (Burgomaster’s Office, Town Council Chamber, Maximilian Hall, Wedding Hall, Gothic Hall, Portrait Gallery, Grangé Gallery, etc.). These tours take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in French, Dutch, Spanish or English and in groups of up to 25 people.
The Panoramic route: it offers the opportunity to discover two of the main halls (the Wedding Hall and the Gothic Hall). Visitors will then be directed to the prestigious balcony of the Town Hall to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Grand Place, world-famous for its decorative richness.
The visit continues with an ascent to the tower of the Town Hall, reached by a spiral staircase. The visitor is rewarded at the top by an exceptional view of Brussels from its center. Visits take place on Saturdays, in French or English and in groups of up to 15 people.
