Galerie Bortier
Center
Neoclassical covered gallery from 1848 housing booksellers. Designed by J-P. Cluysenaar, it combines cast iron and glass over two levels, with a 1763 baroque façade. Renovated in 1974, it offers a historic setting for rare book enthusiasts.
Architecture and History
Built in 1848 according to Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar's plans, the Bortier Gallery embodies the rise of covered passages in the 19th century. Its architecture combines:
- Neoclassical style
- Cast iron and glass structure
- Two levels
- Late baroque main façade (1763)
The entrance on Rue de la Madeleine is distinguished by its monumental façade adorned with a large pediment.
Unique Features
- One of the few remaining covered galleries in Brussels
- Glass roof for natural lighting
- 1974 renovation preserving its historical character
Commercial Offerings
The gallery specializes in book trade:
- Secondhand booksellers
- Used bookstores
- Antique and rare books
- Historical prints
Innovation: An automated dispenser offers books for €5.
Urban Context
The Bortier Gallery is part of an architectural ensemble including:
- The former Madeleine Market (Italian Neo-Renaissance façade visible on Rue Duquesnoy)
- The Madeleine Hall (1957), replacing the covered market
Management
The City of Brussels Land Management oversees the site, preserving its role as cultural and commercial heritage in the heart of the capital.