Cointe Observatory

Cointe Observatory is a brick building with a retractable roof and multiple domes covered in green copper, set within a private park designed in medieval revival style. The structure was built for celestial observation and astrophysical measurement, displaying the scientific infrastructure of the 19th century.

The University of Liège founded this scientific facility in 1881 following architectural plans by Lambert Noppius. The Institute of Astrophysics and Geophysics conducted research there until 2002, when operations relocated to the Sart-Tilman campus.

The name comes from the Cointe hill where it sits, a landmark with deep meaning for the city. Today visitors notice the green copper domes that define the building and make it a recognizable symbol in the urban landscape.

The Société Astronomique de Liège manages the facility and arranges visits for groups and individuals interested in seeing it. Note that the building is currently undergoing substantial renovation work, which may limit access to certain areas.

The site was formerly owned by the wealthy Vanderheyden de Hauzeur family, successful 19th-century industrial entrepreneurs who held considerable land in the area. Their private estate was later transformed into this scientific center, converting private wealth into public knowledge creation.

Location: Cointe

Inception: 1881

Architects: Lambert Noppius

Part of: University of Liège

GPS coordinates: 50.61750,5.56300

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:02