Ixelles Ponds, Protected heritage lakes in Ixelles district, Belgium
Ixelles Ponds are two elongated freshwater basins separated by a narrow land strip, stretching roughly 700 meters long and 50 meters wide. The area is lined with diverse trees including lindens, maples, plane trees, chestnuts, willows, and tulip trees.
The ponds are remnants of wetlands from the Maelbeek valley that were preserved during the city's growth in the 19th century. They represent a slice of natural landscape that survived urban expansion between significant historic locations.
Sculptures honoring local writers and artists stand along the shoreline as reminders of cultural figures. The spaces feel like a quiet retreat where neighbors gather for walks and moments of rest.
The site is open and accessible for walking along the water. Fishing is permitted on certain days for those interested, though you'll want to check local regulations before casting a line.
The water holds various fish species that anglers can catch and release under specific conditions. This catch-and-release system keeps the ponds as a place for fishing hobbyists without harming the population.
Location: Ixelles - Elsene
GPS coordinates: 50.82361,4.37333
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43
Brussels offers photographers a range of architectural subjects spanning several centuries. The medieval Grand-Place forms the historic center, while Art Nouveau buildings such as the Musée Horta and Maison Cauchie document the artistic flourishing around 1900. The Atomium, built for the 1958 World's Fair, represents postwar modernism and has become one of the city's most photographed landmarks. The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert ranks among Europe's oldest covered shopping arcades and displays the elegant construction techniques of the 19th century. The Mont des Arts connects different neighborhoods through a terraced garden with views over the old town. Parc du Cinquantenaire features neoclassical triumphal arches, while the Porte de Hal remains the last surviving medieval city gate. The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Koekelberg shows Art Deco influences in its monumental architecture. Quieter spots include the Étangs d'Ixelles, two ponds in the neighborhood of the same name, or the Forêt de Soignes, an extensive beech forest on the city's edge. Avenue Louise connects residential and commercial districts through various architectural styles. Smaller passages such as Galerie Bortier or Passage du Nord complement the major arcades. Rue des Bouchers is known for its restaurant facades, while Rue de la Cigogne features historic townhouses. Photographically interesting details include the Art Nouveau metro station Pannenhuis or the modernist Bâtiment CBR. The Château de Laeken serves as a royal residence and opens to visitors only during the annual opening of the Serres Royales. Le Botanique, a former botanical garden, now houses a cultural center. Place Royale and the adjacent Palais Royal form the political heart of the city. Smaller squares like Place Flagey offer local scenes away from the main routes.
Radio House
363 m
Former House and Workplace of Clas Grüner Sterner
200 m
Blue Tower
317 m
Hôtel Max Hallet
298 m
Église Sainte-Croix
284 m
Jardin du Roi
249 m
Immeuble La Cascade
115 m
Résidence Val du Roi
228 m
Square de la Croix-Rouge - Rode-Kruissquare
367 m
Own house of architect Adrien Blomme
399 m
Phoenix 44
338 m
Résidence Belle-Vue
151 m
Le Tonneau
209 m
Monument aux pionniers coloniaux d'Ixelles
344 m
Espace Lumen
384 m
La Danse
214 m
Monument to Charles De Coster
408 m
Pascale
374 m
Stricker House
299 m
Alphonse Renard
177 m
Rue Vilain XIIII 11
106 m
Art Nouveau Linked Houses
101 m
Hôtel de maître éclectique
308 m
Livescope
395 m
La Danse
353 m
Rue Vilain XIIII 9
100 m
Hôtel de maître éclectique
309 m
Hôtel Edmond Canonne
426 mReviews
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