What is
the Piétonnier
exactly?
A little leap through time!
1861
Before becoming a boulevard, the Senne, which at the time was synonymous with insalubrity and flooding, crossed this part of Brussels. At the time, the district decided to bury and clean up the Senne.
1871
After four years of construction, the Boulevard Central was finished: an ambitious project to modernise the heart of Brussels! In 1979, the boulevard was renamed “Boulevard Anspach”, in homage to the burgomaster who initiated the project.
1873
Unveiled in 1873, this now iconic building on the boulevard was the first to house the Bourse de Commerce in a single location.
1969
Brussels’ first premetro line is unveiled, linking the Schuman and De Brouckère stations. An important first step for accessibility in Brussels!
2012
The launch of the project to pedestrianise Boulevard Anspach to create a more pleasant setting.
2015
From 2015 onwards, the area was no longer crossed by an urban highway. The main thoroughfare has been transformed into a promenade for residents and visitors alike, combining relaxation areas, green spaces and a shared walkway.
Today
Today, the Piétonnier has become a place for meetings and gatherings. There’s always something to do: cultural activities, entertainment, festivals… and shopping, of course.
Take time to enjoy the city
At the heart of Brussels, the Piétonnier provides quick access to many districts. From Sainte-Catherine, with its famous fish and seafood restaurants, to Saint-Jacques, with its shops full of character in a unique heritage setting, to Dansaert, a must-see for design and style… you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in these central neighbourhoods!
Did you know?
Today, the Piétonnier is dotted with greenery thanks to 180 trees and green spaces. As the Brussels Metro lies underground, transforming this urban area into a green space was no easy task. Everything had to be designed to ensure that the plants had sufficient space to grow without their roots damaging the surface. A real challenge that the City of Brussels decided to take up in 2015!
“It’s a great place to come for a walk in summer. Well worth visiting.”
Aïsha, Brussels resident
“I come here often, because I live here and study at the Erasmus Hogeschool right next door. I really like the Piétonnier, because there’s so much to do: shops, bookshops, and a great choice of places to eat.”
Sarah, student
“It’s changed a lot and it’s getting nicer and nicer, especially now that the Bourse has been redeveloped.”
Marc, passing through the Piétonnier
