Brussels

Brussels boasts some iconic photographic spots - the Atomium, Mannikin Pis and the space-age Atomium.

One of the lasting visits was the Atomium which looms 102m over Brussels like some space age alien from a bad sixties movie. 

We didn't go inside due to time restrictions, but I've been told that it houses nine separate studios showcasing art and creative displays.  The house-sized metallic balls are linked by steel tube-columns containing escalators and lifts. The balls look like a school chemistry set to represent iron atoms in their crystal lattice.It was built as a symbol of postwar progress for the 1958 World’s Fair ( Expo) and was scheduled to be destroyed but in a last minute bid, it got saved and turned into a world class art gallery and restaurant. 

We spent a day wandering the medieval streets and wandered the beautiful square, which was dressed especially for Christmas. 

Other attractions included the Mannikin Pis and the Janneke Pis ( which I will blog about separately) 

When in Brussels, one MUST eat the frittes.  They are soooo good. We lined up for about 10 mins at one of the most famous places to eat fries - and were not disappointed. Creamy inside and so crisp and deliciously fried on the outside - accompanied of course with creamy mayonnaise.  

We also ate waffles and had hot chocolates .. mmmm.what a piggy day - but so delightful. 

One of the must "dos" is a leisurely wander into the Les Galerie Royales Saint-Hubert. Its a famous 19th century shopping arcade, where chocolate shops carry more security that a jewelery shop and looks every bit as beautiful and precious.  I've read that over 6 million visitors walk up and down it a year. Judging from the prices of the food and chocolates, if everyone of them bought just one tiny piece, the owners are very happy people.

We indulged by visiting one shop and buying one ( yes - truly) 1 - piece of confectionary each. 

Below is a photo of Lilly choosing a traditional Belgium jellied fruit sweet. the one below is of me at the start of the long walkway.

The Cat on a bike is a sculpture was created by artist Alain Séchas for the city of Brussels in 2005. He reportabley was paid 100 000 €. yeah.. I am wondering too. Still, its one of THE things to go and look at and scratch your head about, so we did.. got the photo and are still wondering.