I have always felt attracted to unusual or uncommon places. I think their uniqueness and authenticity is what gives me a special vibe. One of the places that perfectly fit this category is the Atomium, which is considered to be the symbol of Brussels and of the entire Belgium.
This unique piece of architecture is actually a metal structure made of iron crystal and it represents the nine atoms of a unit cell. The entire structure is built on three pillars, it weighs 2400 tons and it is 102 meters tall.
The nine metal spheres connected by twenty tubes, were initially made of aluminum, but this metal was replaced with stainless steel after renovation. Built by Andre Waterkeyn as the emblematic image of the World Fair of Brussels in 1958, the Atomium became the symbol of modernity and of scientific progress.
The Atomium was supposed to be a temporary construction but its popularity turned it into one of the most famous international tourist attractions. It will be a wonderful experience to admire this construction from the outside, but you should definitely not miss the interior.
Five of the spheres are open to the public and the access is facilitated by stairs, escalators and a lift. The interior is really incredible. The whole place is embellished with a multitude of lights and colors which will give you the feeling that you are in a science fiction world.
The main sphere hosts a permanent exhibition that you can visit in case you would like to find out a lot of details about this construction. Other temporary exhibitions on various topics can be admired in the other spheres. The big surprise in my opinion is the fact that a whole sphere has been transformed in a playground for children.
In case you are a parent this will be more than perfect, because you will be able to offer your own child the chance to live an unforgettable experience. The interior of this sphere looks like the setting of a science fiction story. You should also know that various workshops are organized there. I find really brilliant that this place has a bedroom where children can rest after the hustle and bustle of their science fiction adventures.
The surprises don’t stop here because there is a nice restaurant in the upper sphere that will offer you the most spectacular view over the entire city. Another interesting thing about this iron structure is that sometimes it hosts different events such as: concerts, film screenings and conferences.
If you are a souvenir lover you should know that your passion will be fully satisfied at the Art & Design Atomium Museum which is situated next to the Atomium. I think I have covered everything you need to know about this fabulous place, but if I missed something, you will surely discover it during your visit there.
I really enjoyed my experience at the Atomium and I believe that you will find this place as interesting and special as I did.
