Parc du Cinquantenaire

A triumphal arch in the heart of Brussels

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is one of the most impressive spots in Brussels for architectural photography. The triumphal arch dominates the park, but it is not the only thing worth your attention. The symmetry of the avenues, the palaces on either side and the sheer scale of the grounds give you a lot to work with. This is not a place you will be done with in ten minutes.

Light and timing

Come during the golden hour if you can, either early in the morning or just before sunset. In the morning you will have the park largely to yourself. The sun rises from the east and catches the arch and the palaces from the side, bringing out texture and relief in the stonework. Later in the day the light becomes less flattering on the front facade of the arch. In summer the park fills quickly with tourists and people having lunch on the grass, so getting up early is genuinely worth it.

Compositions that work

The classic shot is a frontal view of the triumphal arch with the avenue as a leading line. It works, but it is also predictable. Try sitting lower or moving to the side, so the arch relates to one of the flanking buildings. A wider focal length around 24 to 35mm gives you room to include the surroundings. With a longer focal length, say 85mm or more, you can isolate details from the relief of the arch. The columns, the sculptures and the inscriptions are well worth it.

Season and atmosphere

Autumn is my favourite season here. The trees along the avenues turn orange and yellow, which compensates for the slightly colder, grey Brussels sky. In winter, when the trees are bare, you get a sharper, more architectural image. Snow falls rarely but makes the park undeniably beautiful. Spring brings no particularly special blossom, but the fresh green gives the park a different energy.

Practical

The park is freely accessible and no permit is required for non-commercial photography. You can park near the Schumanplein or simply take the metro, as stations Merode and Schuman are both close by. Be aware that on weekdays a lot of commuters and civil servants pass through the park, which makes for dynamic street shots but also clutter in the background.

Sources and further reading

• Visit Brussels: Parc du Cinquantenaire
• Musées du Cinquantenaire (MRAH)
• Wikipedia: Jubelpark