BRUSSELS, Belgium — The elegant glass-domed roof of the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert illuminates the historic shopping arcade in Brussels' Lower Town. This pioneering European covered shopping street, opened in 1847, comprises three interconnected galleries housing luxury shops and cafes.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert in Brussels, Belgium, stands as a testament to 19th-century architectural innovation and commercial grandeur. Opened in 1847, it claims the distinction of being Europe's first shopping arcade, predating similar structures in Milan and St. Petersburg. Designed by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer, the gallery complex consists of three interconnected passageways: the Galerie du Roi, Galerie de la Reine, and the smaller Galerie des Princes. The arcade's most striking feature is its magnificent glass-domed roof, which floods the interior with natural light, creating a bright, airy atmosphere for shoppers and visitors. This innovative use of glass and iron construction was at the forefront of architectural technology for its time. The Galeries' neoclassical façade and intricate detailing reflect the opulence of the Victorian era, while its layout revolutionized urban shopping experiences by providing a sheltered, pedestrian-friendly environment. Housing an array of luxury boutiques, renowned chocolatiers, elegant cafes, and cultural venues, the Galeries Saint-Hubert continues to be a symbol of Brussels' rich commercial and cultural heritage. Its enduring popularity among locals and tourists alike underscores its significance not just as a shopping destination, but as a vital part of Brussels' architectural and social history.
Size: 4476px × 6706px
Location: Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Brussels, Brussels Region, Belgium
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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