Programme

Walk

No Parking: a history of garages in the city

© urban.brussels

Alongside the urban upheavals brought about by the construction of the motorway infrastructure, the city has also inherited a remarkable built heritage directly related to the widespread use of cars: garages, petrol stations, workshops and car parks, to give just a few examples. While apparently ordinary, this heritage is significant: these places take us back to an industrious past, a social history and technical innovations that are worth highlighting and documenting. At a time when many real estate projects are replacing and erasing some of this heritage, ARAU will take you on a stroll from block to block in a district historically marked by the establishment of many car-related activities. From La Bascule/De Bascule to Châtelain/Kastelein, from the garages of Square des Milliardaires/Miljardairssquare or Square du Bois/Bossquare to the D’Ieteren automotive business, join us as we explore the many facets of these city garages and current renovation projects. Thus, the story of the impact of cars in the city is not just one of pressure, but also one of conservation and (repeated) adaptation!

In cooperation with Atelier de Recherche et d’Action Urbaines (ARAU).

Practical information

Sat. & Sun. at 10:00 and 14:00 (French) (duration: 2 hours)

in front of Square du Bois/Bossquare (nicknamed Square des Milliardaires/Miljardairssquare (Billionaires’ Square)), at the foot of the La lutte équestre statue, Avenue Louise/Louizalaan 535, BE-1000 Brussels

Advance booking required. Up to 25 people per tour.