The site was originally intended to be a 'Mont des Arts' featuring a central library and museum complex, hence the name meaning 'Hill of the Arts'.
Much of the current architectural layout was shaped by the urban renewal projects of the 1950s and 1960s, which replaced older, densely packed neighborhoods.
The gardens are terraced to manage the steep elevation change between the Place Royale and the Grand Place.
A carillon on the facade of the adjacent building features rotating historical figures from Belgian history that emerge on the hour.
The site sits atop the Brussels-Central railway tunnel, which was constructed beneath the hill as part of the North-South connection project.
The Royal Library of Belgium, located at the upper end of the garden, houses over six million volumes.
Mont des Arts is a historic urban complex in central Brussels designed as a cultural hub connecting the upper and lower town. The site features a formal tiered garden offering a prominent elevated vantage point over the Brussels city center, including views of the Town Hall spire. It serves as the physical gateway to several major institutions, including the Royal Library of Belgium and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Originally conceived by King Leopold II for the 1910 Universal Exhibition, the area underwent significant architectural redevelopment during the mid-20th century. The current design incorporates neoclassic-inspired facades and a geometric landscape layout. It functions as a public thoroughfare and a space for municipal exhibitions.
From the top of the stone stairs looking down the center of the garden toward the spire of the Brussels Town Hall.
Walk from the top of the hill down toward the city center for the most expansive perspective of the architecture.
Check the terrace walls for hidden plaques detailing the history of the surrounding buildings.
Visit during the early morning to avoid the high foot traffic typical of this major transit artery.
Do not mistake the modern surrounding buildings for the historic center itself; the primary value is the architectural layout and the view.
