Overview

In 1931, George Eastman – the philanthropist who made photography accessible to all through Kodak – donated funds to Brussels’ Public Welfare Commission to build a dental clinic for underprivileged children. Similar centres were established by Eastman both before and after the Brussels building, in Rochester, London, Rome, Stockholm and Paris. The chosen location was Leopold Park, with Swiss architect Michel Polak at the helm. Known for the nearby Résidence Palace and firmly rooted in the modernist movement, Polak designed a sober façade with a flat roof, focusing on striking volumes. The monumental entrance is enhanced by a vast, stylised wrought-iron composition by Brussels craftsman Alfred François. Inside, a marble-clad entrance hall leads to offices and a children’s waiting room decorated with paintings by Camille Barthélémy on the theme of La Fontaine’s Fables. In 2011, as the building was set to become the House of European History, it was given a contemporary extension. Opened in 2017, the museum aims to foster understanding of Europe’s shared past. Guided tours on Saturday by appointment (FR/NL/EN). Self-guided tours on Saturday and Sunday with brochure. Please note that a security check will be carried out at the entrance. It is therefore advisable to arrive 10 minutes before the time of the guided tour. Photographs are permitted with the consent of the participants.

Practical information

Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00

rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels

Advance booking not required. Advance booking is required for the guided tours.

Accessible with assistance

Address
rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels