Visiting the Atomium
Constructed for the 1958 World Fair, the Atomium is a monument located in Brussels that represents the conventional unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It features eight atoms at the corners of a cube and a ninth in the center, standing 102 meters tall and weighing 2,400 tons.
The most popular attraction in Brussels
As a symbol of peace between nations and a belief in technical and scientific progress, the Atomium also represents the peaceful use of atomic energy. The nine spheres refer to the nine Belgian provinces that made up Belgium at the time. The Atomium was renovated in 2006 with a new strategy focused on international tourism and culture. It was a rebirth for a structure that was never intended to last beyond the fair.
A timeless journey
This monument is worth visiting both from the outside and the inside. The Atomium is often compared to an intergalactic spaceship or the interior of a submarine. Exploring the inside feels surreal, with a walk through truly surprising spaces and volumes. The stainless steel domes are 18 meters in diameter, supported by an impressive metal framework. An elevator takes you to the top in just about 20 seconds, reaching over 100 meters high. A magnificent panorama of the city of Brussels awaits you there. That is not all, as you can opt for a tour from sphere to sphere. These are connected by metal tubes, an experience that immerses you in a highly futuristic, almost unreal atmosphere. The escalators are some of the longest in the world, with the largest one reaching 35 meters. This unique construction is the result of a collaboration between architects André and Jean Polak and engineer André Waterkeyn.
Permanent and temporary exhibitions, conferences, and concerts take place inside the various spheres. One sphere is dedicated to children with urban educational workshops. A restaurant is located at the highest level.
Opening hours
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While the Atomium features original and pretty impressive architecture, I found the visit a bit quick. It is possible to go inside, but it does not really add much. Especially since you have to pay for the interior tour. Note that the Atomium is located a little ways outside the center. Seeing it while passing by is more than enough. It is not worth stopping for.