Place Flagey


Eugène Flagey Square, is a square in the Brussels municipality of Ixelles, Belgium. With ten streets converging there, it is one of the best connected crossroads in the city, directly adjacent to the neighbouring Ixelles Ponds. A large flood control reservoir and a parking lot have been built under the square.

History

Early history

The area comprising Flagey Square was covered by the Ixelles Ponds until 1860 when one of the original ponds was drained as part of new urban design. Originally known as the Place Sainte-Croix/Heilig Kruisplein, it was renamed in 1937 by Eugène Flagey, mayor of Ixelles from 1935 to 1953.

Renovation (2004–2008)

Beginning in 2002, the square was extensively renovated. Prior to the renovation, it had been primarily used as an open air parking lot. The project was infamously delayed many times and all activity had to grind to a halt for sometimes months on end. The plans were remade in 2004, partially on the demand of the local residents' association. Among their demands were the complete elimination of above ground parking in the square. The original plan was not deemed ambitious enough and a new competition was launched for international bids from different architects. Latz&Partner and D + A International eventually won the contract.
Official celebrations for the reopening of Flagey Square took place in July 2008. Events held included fireworks, concerts, guided visits and film screenings. However, at the time of the official opening, the subterranean parking which was built below the square was not opened. The risk of flooding as well as other structural problems forced authorities to keep the facility closed. The parking finally opened on 15 November 2010.

Sights

Flagey Square is famous for:
Flagey Square is served by several STIB/MIVB lines: tram line 81 and bus lines 38, 59, 60 and 71, as well as TEC Walloon Brabant bus line 366. The square also hosts a Villo! shared bicycle station, as well as shared car stations.