Laeken Cemetery Brussels
A historic Brussels cemetery famed for its stunning mausoleums and the romantic Evrard Tomb's annual heart phenomenon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see the heart phenomenon
Laeken Cemetery Brussels
Best Time
To see the heart phenomenon
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Brussels cemetery famed for its stunning mausoleums and the romantic Evrard Tomb's annual heart phenomenon.
"Discover a place where love, art, and nature align to create a truly unforgettable spectacle."
🎯 Catch the Heart Phenomenon
Visit between June 20-25, around noon, for the best chance to see the sunlit heart at the Evrard tomb.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Allow plenty of time to explore the vast cemetery; many unique tombs await discovery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Evrard Tomb's Heart
Evrard Mausoleum
A weeping statue reaches for a sunlit heart that appears annually, symbolizing eternal love.
Architectural Mausoleums
Throughout the cemetery
Discover a stunning array of unique mausoleums, from grand family tombs to intricate sculptures.
Underground Graves
Various sections
Explore the fascinating subterranean burial sites, adding a unique dimension to your visit.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Heart
Explore Beyond the Famous Tombs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Heart Phenomenon
Visit between June 20-25, around noon, for the best chance to see the sunlit heart at the Evrard tomb.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Allow plenty of time to explore the vast cemetery; many unique tombs await discovery.
Pretty/interesting graveyards in Belgium?
Every 21st June a perfect heart appears in this tomb in Brussels
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and poignant memorials.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths, so wear comfortable footwear.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Heart Phenomenon
Visit between June 20-25, around noon, for the best chance to see the sunlit heart at the Evrard tomb.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Allow plenty of time to explore the vast cemetery; many unique tombs await discovery.
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and poignant memorials.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths, so wear comfortable footwear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique architectural marvels and the romantic legend of the Evrard Tomb's heart phenomenon. The cemetery offers a peaceful, historical, and visually stunning experience, though some find the sheer scale overwhelming and facilities limited.
"The cemetery of Laeken is a unique museum of silent funerary art! Recommended for a philosophical walk among personalities of Belgium and not only! It's the resting place for many famous families of past centuries that shaped Brussels life and history!
The cemetery of Laeken is the oldest of the Brussels Region and originally a pilgrimage place to worship Virgin Mary.
At the entrance stands the monument of the unknown French soldier. Just a few steps after the entrance you will meet the original studio of Ernest Salu and sons, the grave makers who sculpted many of the romantic tombs.
Highly recommended visit where silence whispers volumes about life and death."
Andreas Milionis
"This is, by far, one of my favorite cemeteries ever. Please, spend at least an hour in this beautiful cemetery. 🦇🖤"
Camille
"Great funerary architecture and intriguing, but I personally found the people here strange--singularly uncommunicative. A couple I found were downright stiff! Lots of folks were just laying around. Seriously, well worth a stroll. Too bad there aren't tours, in fact."
john sherman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Laeken Cemetery by public transport. Take tram 3 or 7 to the 'Stuyvenbergh' stop, or bus 53 to 'Laeken Cemetery'. Driving is also an option, with parking available.
Yes, several tram and bus lines stop near the cemetery, making it accessible from various parts of Brussels.
Public transport is recommended, especially around June 21st, as parking might be limited. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
The main entrance is usually well-marked. It's advisable to check the cemetery's official website for any specific access information or temporary closures.
Depending on your starting point, it might be a long walk. Public transport is generally more efficient for reaching the cemetery from the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Laeken Cemetery is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to explore its grounds and admire the tombs.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, the heart phenomenon at the Evrard tomb is best viewed around noon between June 20th and 25th.
While not always formally advertised, local guides or historical societies may offer tours. Inquire locally or check for special event listings.
Some underground graves and mausoleums are accessible, but access to certain areas might be restricted or require special arrangements.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the unique architecture and atmosphere.
The Evrard tomb, grand mausoleums, and the intricate sculptures offer excellent photographic opportunities. Explore different angles and lighting.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries to maintain peace and respect. Always check local regulations before flying any aerial devices.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the architectural details. The midday sun is crucial for the heart phenomenon.
While you can photograph graves, always be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if visitors are present.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate the cemetery's scale and details, allocate at least 2-3 hours. You could easily spend half a day exploring.
Restroom facilities may be limited. It's advisable to use facilities before entering. There are no cafes inside, so bring your own refreshments.
The terrain can be uneven with gravel paths and slopes. While some areas are accessible, mobility issues might make exploration challenging.
It's a place of quiet reflection, historical significance, and unique artistic expression. Visitors often describe it as peaceful and fascinating.
Maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor. Avoid loud noises, littering, or disturbing the graves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to be 'grave detectives,' looking for interesting symbols or unique tomb designs. It's a peaceful environment for a walk, but ensure children understand the need for quiet and respect. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there's a lot of ground to cover. Consider bringing snacks and water, as facilities are limited.
❤️ Couples and Romantics
Beyond this specific attraction, the cemetery's serene atmosphere and the stories embedded in its grand mausoleums provide a contemplative backdrop for a shared outing. It’s a place to wander hand-in-hand, discover hidden corners, and reflect on history and human connection.
📸 Photographers and Art Enthusiasts
Key subjects include the Evrard Tomb with its unique narrative, the elaborate family crypts, and the detailed stonework found throughout the grounds. Exploring the cemetery provides opportunities to capture both grand vistas and intimate details, making it a rewarding location for artistic exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Evrard Tomb
What makes this tomb truly special is the annual solar alignment. Around the summer solstice, specifically between June 20th and 25th, the sun's rays align to form a perfect heart shape. This heart of light briefly touches the fingertips of the statue, a poignant and romantic symbol of unending love that transcends death.
It's important to note that while the date is around June 21st, the heart can be visible for several days before and after, and the exact time of day is crucial – it appears around noon when the sun is at the right angle.
Architectural Grandeur and Hidden Gems
Many of these structures are essentially miniature buildings, complete with intricate sculptures, detailed facades, and unique artistic elements. The cemetery also features underground graves and catacombs, adding another layer of historical intrigue to the exploration. Wandering through the winding paths, you'll stumble upon elaborate family crypts belonging to prominent Belgian families and notable figures, each with its own distinct character.
To fully appreciate the architectural diversity, it's recommended to dedicate ample time to simply walk and observe. The sheer variety ensures that there's always something new and fascinating to discover around every corner, making it a photographer's and history enthusiast's delight.
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