Construction sites throw open their, erm, doors this Sunday

Check out the archeological finds at the giant dig that used to be Parking 58 or the spectacular renovation project underway at the former goods depot at Tour & Taxis during Journée Chantiers Ouverts. All kinds of interesting projects in progress are open to visitors during the event this Sunday.

Visitors get guided tours that will give them an impression of what the projects will look like eventually and any challenges or complications that have arisen during construction or renovation. One might be required to enter a metres-deep pit or don a hardhat.

The Parking 58 project is particuarly intriguing because before it becomes a new administrative centre, it is an archaeological site. The Senne river used to be located here, and the tour offers a unique opportunity to meet archaeologists and see the remains up close, including a 15th-century quay wall and a millstone from the 10th century.

The Journée Chantiers Ouverts website lists all the sites available to visit, which also includes the future Delta West rest home in Auderghem and an impressive 8,000 cubic-metre storm water basin in Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, which really must be seen to be believed.

While the event is free, registration is sometimes required and languages vary, so check the website. The Parking 58 project is not listed on the website; visitors can simply show up at Marché-aux-Poulets between 10.00 and 17.00 with a good pair of shoes. Those tours are in French, Dutch and English.

Photo courtesy Bruxelles Patrimoines