The City of Brussels on Friday opened up the rooftop of its new administrative centre, Brucity, to the public, offering elevated views across the region.
At the end of last year, the administrative staff of the central municipality started its move from its former offices on Place de Brouckère, to a new flagship location named Brucity, on the former Car Park 58, between its old location and Place de la Bourse.
It was hailed as a major improvement by the City itself, but criticised by others as a glass mammoth which looks out of step with the historic city centre. Hoping to change opinions, the City will, as planned, open Brucity's rooftop to the public. In March this year, the people of Brussels were invited to discover the multipurpose building itself, but from 23 June, they will be able to visit the rooftop.
"It is important that Brucity really becomes the building of the people of Brussels, i.e. the place where they go for their administrative procedures, but also a place for meetings, exchanges and culture," Philippe Close, Mayor of the City of Brussels, said ahead of the opening.
The rooftop itself, with a pop-up bar by 58 Rooftop, is located on the ninth floor of the colossal building, and offers a 360° view over the whole of Brussels, from the Basilica and the Atomium in the North to Mont des Arts, the Grand Place and Palais de Justice in the centre.
A restaurant is expected to open on the level below in September, just in time to take part in the buzz of the last summer days.
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"With the opening of the roof, which will soon be completed after the summer with a restaurant underneath, the building should become multifunctional. Brussels residents will have all the more reason to spend time here," Close added.
Both the rooftop and the restaurant will be open in the evenings and during weekends.
