Louis Bertrandlaan

This avenue is named after ship owner Louis Bertrand (1856-1943), a pioneer of Belgian socialism and a forerunner of the urban development of his municipality. It is one of the most beautiful avenues in Brussels, primarily due to the stunning view over the slope of the Maalbeek valley. At the top, the avenue is 40 meters wide, with two lanes separated by a central green area with trees, lawns, and flower beds. Where the green area widens, it forms a large grassy square that serves as a transition to Josaphatpark. Since all houses were built between 1906 and 1914, there is a remarkable unity of style. The grandeur was a conscious choice of the municipal authorities. Owners were only granted a building permit if they could demonstrate that the façade width would be at least six meters, and the cost for the façade would be at least 50 Belgian francs per square meter. Additionally, the municipality organized annual architecture competitions, with a prize for the most beautiful façade. Thirteen houses along Louis Bertrand Avenue received awards.

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