Walloon Brabant, a region rich in history and heritage, is also a prime destination for urban explorers. This Belgian province offers a variety of abandoned sites that tell the story of its industrial, educational, and residential past. Here are five must-see urban exploration sites to discover in Walloon Brabant, each promising a unique urban exploration experience.
1: The Joseph Lemaire Sanatorium
Located in Tombeek, the Joseph Lemaire Sanatorium is an iconic example of modern architecture in Belgium. Built in the 1930s for the treatment of tuberculosis, this sanatorium is now abandoned, offering a fascinating setting for exploration.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Reinforced concrete buildings, wide corridors, treatment rooms.
- State of disrepair: Well preserved, despite the encroaching 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 shrouded in mystery and offers a unique atmosphere for explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Castle ruins, collapsed towers, overgrown garden.
- State of disrepair: Very dilapidated, partially in ruins.
- Access: Relatively easy, although the location is isolated.
3: Villers-la-Ville Abbey
Although Villers-la-Ville Abbey is not entirely abandoned, some parts of it offer a perfect setting for urban exploration. 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 Nivelles Teacher Training College
In Nivelles, there is an abandoned former teacher training college. This building, deserted for several years, offers a unique setting for urban explorers, with its empty classrooms and silent corridors.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Classrooms, offices, amphitheater.
- State of disrepair: Decomposing, 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 shrouded in mystery and local legends. Although the existence of ghosts is disputed, this old abandoned house is the perfect spot for those seeking a spooky urban exploration experience.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Old house, cellars, attics.
- State of disrepair: Very dilapidated, risk of collapse.
- Access: Relatively easy, but caution is advised.
Conclusion
Walloon Brabant is brimming with fascinating urban exploration sites, each with its own unique charm and history to uncover. Whether you're drawn to industrial remnants, Gothic architecture, or local legends, this region offers a wealth of opportunities for urban explorers. However, as always with urban exploration, it's essential to respect the sites, local laws, and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Happy exploring!
