Osseghem Park

Osseghem Park is a spacious green area in the Laeken district of Brussels, best known as a natural viewpoint over the Atomium. It was laid out in 1932 by Belgian landscape architect Jules Buyssens, one of the leading designers of public parks in Belgium at the time. Buyssens shaped Osseghem in the English landscape style, with gently rolling terrain, loosely arranged clusters of trees, and open lawns that stand in contrast to the more geometric, French-style gardens found elsewhere in the city.

Why was the park created here?

The site was chosen as part of the preparations for the 1935 World's Fair, held nearby in Parc du Centenaire. Osseghem was meant to serve as extra recreational space and a green buffer for exhibition visitors, and its gentle slopes and open clearings were well suited for walking and relaxing after touring the fair's pavilions.

What can visitors see in the park?

The park's main draw is its view of the Atomium, the structure erected on the adjacent site for the 1958 World's Fair, Expo 58. From the park's lawns and paths, particularly the higher ground, the Atomium is visible in full, making this a popular spot for photos and simply taking in one of Brussels' most recognizable landmarks from a distance.

The park is also home to the Groentheater, an open-air amphitheater still used today for concerts and cultural events during the summer months. Its wide lawns are well suited for picnics, and the network of paths allows for a quiet stroll away from the busier streets of Laeken.

What role does the park play for the Laeken district?

Osseghem functions as one of the main green lungs of this part of Brussels, linking the surrounding residential neighborhoods with the recreational grounds around the Atomium and the exhibition site. For local residents, it's a place for daily walks, cycling, or jogging; for visitors, it offers a natural extension of an Atomium visit, letting them see the structure from a distance and surrounded by greenery rather than only up close.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed Osseghem Park? The park was designed by Jules Buyssens in 1932, in the English landscape style typical of loose, picturesque layouts.

What is the park's historical connection? The park was created as part of the preparations for the 1935 World's Fair, held in the neighboring Parc du Centenaire.

Can you see the Atomium from the park? Yes, the park is one of the best spots to view the Atomium, built for Expo 58, from a distance and amid greenery.

What else is in the park besides the Atomium view? The park houses the Groentheater, an open-air amphitheater used for concerts and cultural events, along with wide lawns and walking paths.

Is the park suitable for picnics or relaxing? Yes, its open lawns and calm atmosphere make it a popular choice for picnics or a quiet break away from the busy city.