“How and for what reasons did the architects draw on formal repertoires of the past? In what way have the architectural styles been reinterpreted over time? Which of our region’s iconic buildings best illustrate such reinterpretations?”

The architecture of the Brussels-Capital region keeps a number of secrets and these are some of the questions that can help uncover them. On the third weekend of September 2016, trends and techniques that inspired the creation of the region’s most fascinating buildings will be in focus of the 27th edition of Heritage Days in Belgium - Brussels. 97 historic and cultural sites will join to celebrate the cultural heritage of the region and offer new insights into its architectural history.

With the theme “Recycling of Styles,” this year’s events will look to delve deeper into styles that have shaped the Brussels - Capital region of today. Numerous exhibitions, workshops and bus tours will be dedicated to exploring the region’s historic buildings, churches and monuments with an aim to educate visitors about their local heritage. The events will invite people to use their imagination and interpret the contexts in which various heritage sites were created.

Saint Catherine’s Church, Palais de la Bourse, City of Brussels Museum and numerous other landmarks will open their doors to be a part of this large-scale cultural exploration. The programme will also include guided tours through different political institutions, industrial zones and community sites to highlight their historic and cultural values. While some of these places are open throughout the year, the 2016 Heritage Week will also feature sites and stories that previously have not been available to public.

“This is a unique opportunity to visit a large number of iconic locations in the capital as well as others that are less well known or rarely open to visitors during the rest of the year,"  suggests Rudi Vervoort, Minister-President of the Brussels-Capital Region responsible for Monuments and Sites.

Celebrated in the Brussels-Capital region since 1989, Heritage Days have been one of the most popular ways to explore the invaluable cultural heritage of numerous public places and hidden gems of the region. More information about this year’s theme could be found on the European Heritage Days portal homepage, while the official programme for the events can be downloaded here.