Berlaymont building, Government building in European Quarter, Brussels, Belgium
Description
The Berlaymont is a modern office building in Brussels's European Quarter with a distinctive cross-shaped design and four extending wings. It rises 14 floors and houses around 3000 employees, with meeting spaces on upper levels and amenities including restaurants and broadcast facilities below ground.
History
Built between 1963 and 1969, the structure replaced a former convent that once stood on the site. It became the headquarters of the European Commission in 1967 and has remained central to European governance since.
Culture
The building serves as the headquarters of the European Commission and represents the center where major European Union decisions are made. Daily work here shapes policies that affect all member states.
Practical
Located in the heart of Brussels's administrative quarter, the building is well-served by public transport connections. Note that this is an active workplace, so access and tours require advance arrangements and security procedures.
Did you know?
From 1997 to 2004, the building underwent a complete overhaul where asbestos was removed from the entire structure and modern systems were installed throughout. This major renovation transformed the interior while preserving the iconic exterior shape.
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