Schaerbeek Town Hall. Brussels, Belgium

The Schaerbeek Town Hall is located on Place Colignon and is one of Brussels’ most striking municipal buildings. It was designed by architect Jules-Jacques Van Ysendijck in the neo-Flemish Renaissance style and inaugurated in 1887 by King Leopold II. With its red-brick façade, elegant gables, and distinctive turret, the town hall was meant to reflect both the power of local government and Schaerbeek’s cultural identity as the “City of Arts.”

In 1911, a devastating fire reduced much of the building to ashes. It was rebuilt soon after by Van Ysendijck’s son, Maurice, who carefully followed the original design while enlarging the complex. The restored building was officially reopened in 1919 in the presence of King Albert I.

Inside, the town hall is just as impressive as its exterior. Oak and marble paneling, coffered ceilings, and stained-glass windows tell the story of Schaerbeek’s past. The ceremonial staircase, bronze sculptures by G. Vandevoorde, and a series of paintings by Herman Richir highlight the artistic heritage of the municipality. The Wedding Rooms and Council Chamber remain among the most admired spaces, decorated with monumental stained glass.

Today, the Schaerbeek Town Hall is both the seat of local government and a symbol of resilience, history, and civic pride. It continues to welcome residents and visitors, blending everyday life with centuries of heritage.