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Art Nouveau Brussels
Brussels was the birthplace of Art Nouveau — Victor Horta's curving facades still line entire streets.
What to see
Horta Museum, Hotel Solvay, Hotel Tassel, Place Brugmann area.
Why it matters
Some of Europe's finest Art Nouveau, much of it UNESCO-listed.
Traveller tip
Book the Horta Museum in advance — capacity is limited.
Best time to visit
Daytime for facade photos
Cultural context
Brussels architect Victor Horta built the Hôtel Tassel in 1893 — generally considered the first true Art Nouveau building in the world. Four of his houses (Tassel, Solvay, Van Eetvelde, Horta) are UNESCO World Heritage. Saint-Gilles, Ixelles and Schaerbeek hide hundreds of curving facades, stained glass and wrought-iron balconies.
