Colonne du Congres (Congress Column), Brussels

Standing proudly at 47 meters in height on the square that bears its name, the Congress Column was erected in 1850 to commemorate the establishment of the Belgian state and constitution by the National Congress in 1830-31. Taking inspiration from Rome's Trajan's Column, this monument features a statue of Léopold I atop it and, lower down, four allegorical female figures symbolizing the freedoms protected by the Constitution: freedom of worship, association, education, and the press. Subsequently, the majestic lions were added to guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in front of which an eternal flame pays tribute to Belgium's fallen heroes from both World Wars.

The Congress Column presides over a spacious belvedere that offers a unique panoramic view of the Lower Town.

Tip:
From this spot, it's just a short five- to ten-minute stroll north along rue Royale to reach the Le Botanique cultural complex, or a similar distance westward to discover the Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée – the Belgian Comic Strip Centre.