Walloon Brabant, a region rich in history and heritage, is also a prime terrain for urbex enthusiasts. This Belgian province offers a variety of abandoned sites that tell the story of its industrial, educational, and residential past. Here are the five must-see urbex sites to discover in Walloon Brabant, each promising a unique urban exploration experience.
1: The Joseph Lemaire Sanatorium
Located in Tombeek, the Sanatorium Joseph Lemaire is an iconic site of modern architecture in Belgium. Built in the 1930s for the treatment of tuberculosis, this sanatorium is now abandoned, providing a fascinating setting for exploration.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Reinforced concrete buildings, large corridors, treatment rooms.
- State of Disrepair: Well preserved, despite invasive vegetation.
- Access: Relatively easy, but some areas are fragile.
2: The Castle of Solitude
The Château de la Solitude , located near Lasne, is a small ruined castle hidden in the heart of the forest. Abandoned for decades, this site is surrounded by mystery and offers a unique atmosphere for explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Castle ruins, collapsed towers, overgrown garden.
- State of Disrepair: Very dilapidated, partially ruined.
- Access: Relatively easy, although the location is isolated.
3: The Abbey of Villers-la-Ville
Although the Abbaye de Villers-la-Ville is not entirely abandoned, some parts of it offer a perfect setting for urbex. Founded in the 12th century, this Cistercian abbey has been in ruins for centuries, but its vast buildings and gardens are still accessible to the public.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Churches, cloisters, gardens, old cellars.
- State of Disrepair: Well-preserved ruins, some areas with restricted access.
- Access: Very easy, open to the public but with areas to explore discreetly.
4: The Normal School of Nivelles
In Nivelles, there is a former teacher training college that has been abandoned. This building, abandoned for several years, offers a unique setting for urbex enthusiasts, with its empty classrooms and silent corridors.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Classrooms, offices, amphitheater.
- State of Disrepair: Decaying, some areas are dangerous.
- Access: Moderately difficult, site often monitored.
5: The Haunted House of Braine-l'Alleud
A Place of Legend and Thrills
The Haunted House of Braine-l'Alleud is a place surrounded by mysteries and local legends. Although the existence of ghosts is disputed, this old abandoned house is the ideal place for those looking for an urbex experience tinged with chills.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Old house, cellars, attics.
- State of Disrepair: Very dilapidated, at risk of collapse.
- Access: Relatively easy, but you have to be careful.
Conclusion
Walloon Brabant is full of fascinating urbex sites, each with its own charm and history to discover. Whether you are drawn to the remains of industry, gothic architecture, or local legends, this region offers a multitude of opportunities for urban explorers. However, as always in urbex, it is essential to respect the places, local laws, and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Happy exploring!
