Touring the outskirts of Brussels

Our Lady of Laeken Church

Yesterday was one of those magical autumn days where the rain finally cleared and everything smells fresh and moist. Armand decided to take me to one of the lesser-known churches on the outskirts of Central Brussels in the area of Laeken. I have to admit, the walk through the suburbs to get there made my South African instinct to clutch my handbag as tightly as possible kick in. The suburbs right around the Notre Dame de Laeken church is very beautiful, and the Royal Park is situated close by.

Now and then we were able to sneak a peek through the highly fenced and barricaded walls of the park (which we later found out is still the residence of the monarchy) after deciding to go to the Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion on the outskirts of the park. The walk is rather tranquil amidst the looming trees, despite the odd surges of traffic swooping past. At least there are both pedestrian and bicycle paths along both sides of the roads.

So, after about 3km after the church (and some very tired feet), we finally arrived at the Museum of the Far East (where we were instantly transported back to Japan as soon as we laid eyes on the Pagoda Tower looming ahead). The Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Pagoda were built in 1901-1909 by King Leopold II, who wanted to create an architectural world tour around the park grounds but, unfortunately, only built the two Oriental-influenced buildings, which is now a museum, housing Oriental art and porcelain. From the gardens around the Chinese Pavilion, we sighted the Atomium and we followed along one of the main streets to reach the park where the Atomium is built.

This strange Iron Atom was built for the World's Fair which Brussels hosted in 1958. I've always felt that the Atomium is one of those attractions which the country built because it didn't really have any other significant landmarks like, for example the Eiffel Tower in Paris or Big Ben in London. But, that's just my opinion. Unfortunately the ticket sales already stopped for the day, but we still had fun fooling around at the big aluminium "Welcome" sign.

The Atomium

Looks like the Iron Atom is a bit too big for me to hold in my arms!

From there we finally stumbled back home where we kicked back, sore feet and all, and planned our day ahead... which, dear readers, is a post for another day! Have you visited the Atomium? What was your opinion of it? Or have you ever visited any other World Fair exhibitions?