Métropolep (Hotel)

(Place de Brouckère 31)

   In 1890 the Wielemans family, owners of a major city brewery, opened a café in a building adjacent to the Passage du Nord. The success of the café led to the purchase of the building next to it, in 1891, which was refurbished as a hotel by architect Alban Chambon (1847-1928). The Hotel Métropole opened in 1894. An adjacent building was also bought in 1890. Designed by Gédéon Bordiau, it was annexed to form a part of the hotel. The Métropole has hosted many prominent personages and has been used as a set in numerous films. The figures on the hotel roof were carved by Jacques de Haan and symbolize Peace, Progress, and Abundance.