Masonic Temple of Les Amis Philanthropes, masonic temple in Brussels
The Masonic Temple of Les Amis Philanthropes is a building in Brussels with two contrasting facades, one in Neoclassical style and the other with a more modern design. Inside, two temples inspired by ancient Egyptian architecture feature colorful murals, detailed stucco decorations, and columns that give the space a distinctive character.
The building originally served as the home of early photographer Louis Ghémar in the late 1800s and transformed into a Masonic center in 1877. The temple attracted many prominent Brussels figures, including Mayor Charles Buls, university founder Théodore Verhaeghen, and Nobel Prize recipient Henri La Fontaine.
The temple bears the name Les Amis Philanthropes, reflecting the bond between Freemasons who see themselves as friends and philanthropists. The spaces are filled with symbolic representations meaningful to members and woven throughout the artwork and decorative elements.
The site is located on Rue du Persil, a quiet street in central Brussels and is recognized as protected heritage. Guided tours are offered during the ANTE Festival, lasting about 45 minutes, and provide access to the interior details of the Grand Temple, including murals and decorations usually not open to the public.
The building was designed by architect Adolphe Samyn, who blended Egyptian style elements with European influences in a striking way. This unusual combination of Oriental symbolism and Western architecture reflects the cosmopolitan nature of Brussels Freemasonry.
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