Lecture

Brussels seen through the lens of its world’s fairs

The first world’s fair was the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. This brought together 25 countries and attracted over 6 million visitors. For the participating nations, it provided an incredible showcase for their technological, industrial and artistic prowess. These international events also became attractive opportunities for meetings and cultural exchanges. Between 1897 and 1958, Brussels organised and hosted no fewer than four world’s fairs on three different sites. Each one encapsulated the period when it was held, leaving its mark on the Belgian capital to varying degrees. This lecture invites you to revisit these remarkable occasions, which were enjoyed by both Brussels residents and visitors from around the world.