The Atomium is an unusual futuristic attraction in the north of Brussels that has always attracted tourists’ attention. It is a massive metal construction that consists of 9 spheres, which are connected with pipes. Its height is 102 meters. According to the design of architect Andre Waterkeyn, the Atomium is nothing but a fragment of an iron crystal lattice that was increased by 165 billion times!

The monument was built for the Expo Word Exhibition of 1958 as a symbol of technological progress and usage of atomic energy for peaceful purposes. Thus, it is not only an unusual architectural concept but also an object which has a scientific and educational mission and promotes peace all over the world.

Initially, it was not meant to be out of the exhibition framework, but finally, it turned into one of the most popular attractions of the city. After the reconstruction in 2006, when the spheres were covered with a steel shell, the Atomium got a more contemporary and finished look. The monument looks especially impressive in the bright light of the sun and night illumination.

Each of the spheres has a diameter of 18 meters; 6 of them are available for visitors. At an altitude of 92 meters, a viewing platform is open; it offers a fantastic view of the city. From above, you can see an interesting attraction, the park of miniatures Mini-Europe, which is located nearby. Apart from it, there are Park Laeken, King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels planetarium and the contemporary art museum.

You can get to the top by a high-speed lift in just 25 seconds. The spheres are connected with each other by corridors-escalators. In one of the parts of the monument, there is a museum, where you can see a permanent exposition dedicated to the history of the Atomium. There you can also get immersed in the atmosphere of the 1950s. Moreover, temporary exhibitions that are often dedicated to scientific achievements are regularly arranged there.

In other spheres, there is a panoramic restaurant and even a hotel which offers a splendid view. The Atomium is one of the city’s symbols; it will be interesting to visit that place with your family. You can easily get to this place by metro: you should go to the Heizel station. Work hours: 11 am – 6 pm. The entrance fee is 16 euros for an adult. Discounts are available for children and pensioners.