Located in the eastern part of the Brussels-Capital Region, the commune owes its name to the Woluwe river, which has had a lasting influence on its territory and urban development. A small rural town until the early 20th century, it then took off in urban terms, drawing on all the architectural styles of the last century. The commune's historic centre originally grew around Saint-Lambert church and the hamlet of Roodebeek, which included a number of farms and land holdings, some of whose remains can still be seen today. The 20th century saw the construction of a series of residential areas, as well as commercial buildings and company headquarters, contrasting with the many green spaces and water sources that dot the landscape of this rather smart commune. Let's go and discover it!
Architecture in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert: Farms, mills and castles
From rural village to cutting-edge commune
Let's start by paying tribute to the agricultural community that was Woluwe-Saint-Lambert. The Hof ten Berg (1750) still bears witness to this past. This former farm was once part of a vast complex covering more than 100 hectares. All that remains of the old buildings are the living quarters and the stables, which have been converted into small worker's cottages. These buildings stand out clearly from the rest of their surroundings. (10, 20 and 22 Hof ten Berg)
If you are not yet convinced by Woluwe-Saint-Lambert's rural past, the Hof ter Musschen will leave you in no doubt. Parts of this former farm date back to the 15th century, but the square farmhouse you see today dates mainly from the mid-18th century. Farming activities continued there until the late 1970s. The farm was then renovated to host seminars and other events. The site still bears witness to the past, with its bread oven and orchard. And don't forget the river Woluwe flowing through the property, which features a mill that has only been there since 1960 - even though its origins date back to the 18th century. (2 avenue E. Mounier)
The elegant little chapel of Marie la Misérable stands before you. It was built in the Gothic style in the 14th century, although it has undergone several alterations. It recalls the misfortune of a little peasant girl victimised by a powerful man, a theme taken up by playwright Michel de Ghelderode in his 1952 play Marie la Misérable. (37 avenue de la Chapelle)
You would think we were staying in the Ancien Régime indefinitely... as we stop for a moment in front of a former stately home, known as Het Slot, or moated castle in Dutch. This important building dates from the late 16th or early 17th century. Today, this idyllic spot is home to a café, a market and a variety of activities. (71 boulevard de la Woluwe)
The Lindekemale Mill plunges us once again into a mediaeval atmosphere, as its origins date back to the 12th century! Located at the confluence of the Woluwe and Struybeek rivers, the original building was constructed entirely of stone. The brick floor is a later addition. It was a flour-producing site for centuries, but in the early 20th century it turned to chicory and tobacco production. (6 avenue Debecker)
The next stage takes you to Malou Park. The Villa Rucquoy designed by architect Fernand Symons, was built on the edge of the park in 1906. This villa is remarkable for its singularity, as you are in Brussels but could just as easily be in the Alps! Take a look at the sloping stone base, the highly decorated window and door frames and the dense vegetation... (38-40 avenue Debecker)
Château Malou, on the other side of Malou Park, has stood there since 1776. Its architect is unknown, but they chose the neoclassical style. The building is very simple, with no unnecessary decoration or frills! Although the house was built by a wealthy merchant, it owes its name to Jules Malou, a political and financial figure who lived there from 1853 to 1886. The site has been used for wedding ceremonies and cultural activities for several decades. (parc Malou)
As you leave the park, cross Boulevard de la Woluwe into the historic heart of the town. The Villa des Tilleuls is one of the few preserved examples of a second home, set in the middle of a park lined with remarkable trees. Built in 1837 for a wealthy annuitant, this country villa, like Château Malou, embraces the neoclassical style. (37 rue Voot)
The church of Saint Lambert has stood on this square since the 12th century. Like most sanctuaries, it has undergone many transformations and extensions, but it still retains its Romanesque appearance, with, in particular, its massive tower. The walls surrounding the church site define the area of the former cemetery. (1 place du Sacré-Cœur)
Opposite the church, you will find another former agricultural estate, 'T Hof van Brussel, which dates back to the 15th century. Entirely protected by a surrounding wall, the farmhouse, organised around a central courtyard, has evolved over time. The stepped gables, two turrets and octagonal tower are all 19th-century additions. You will be catapulted back into Woluwe's distant past! (10 place du Sacré-Cœur)
A monumental yet simple yellow-brick building, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert town hall was built in 1938 by renowned architect Joseph Diongre, who also designed the Belgian National Institute of Radio Broadcasting building on place Flagey. Recognisable by its belfry, the town hall marks a move towards the modernist style. On the way in, you can admire a beautiful glass-tiled dome overhanging and illuminating the counter hall. (2 avenue Paul Hymans)