Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Brussels

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Brussels (Koekelberg Basilica) is a large 20th-century Roman Catholic church built in an Art Deco and modernist idiom, prominently sited on a hill in the Koekelberg district. It is one of the largest churches in Belgium and combines a monumental exterior with a capacious interior and a dome that serves as a viewpoint.

Internally the basilica has a wide nave, subsidiary chapels and exhibition spaces that host religious and cultural events; the dome area includes an elevated gallery with panoramic views over Brussels that is accessible to visitors. The complex also contains museum displays on the building’s construction and its role in Belgian religious life. Visitor facilities include an elevator to the dome and interpretive materials about the site.

Design and construction began in the early 1900s but proceeded slowly because of geopolitical events and funding; the final stages of construction and the formal opening occurred in the mid-20th century. The building represents a large-scale national initiative and reflects changing architectural tastes during the period.

The basilica stands on a prominent hill at Koekelberg in the northwest of Brussels, within easy reach of the city centre by public transport and offering long views across the urban area.

• Scale and viewpoint: The basilica is one of the largest Art Deco churches in Europe and offers a panoramic viewing gallery in its dome reached by lift and stairs.
• Construction timeline: Construction began in the early 20th century and extended over many decades, with final completion and opening in the mid-20th century due to interruptions for two world wars and funding pauses.

What to See #

• Dome viewpoint: The elevated circular walkway and viewing gallery within the dome provide panoramic views of Brussels and the surrounding region and are reached by elevator.
• Nave, chapels and museum: A large central nave and multiple chapels with Art Deco decorative programs, plus exhibition spaces and a museum area addressing the basilica's history and construction.