Free Walking Tour Brussels WW2: An Intro to Occupied Brussels

Discover the stories and visit the landmarks most closely connected to the Nazi occupation of the city during WW2. During this 75 min introductory walking tour, you will learn: - How the Belgian government responded to the invasion. - How ordinary people adapted to survive: black markets, bombings, and resistance movements. - How the Jewish population was discriminated against, persecuted, and targeted for deportation. - How Brussels managed to regain its freedom and peace once more. ITINERARY 1. Rue de Ruysbroeck 35 This building once housed a printing shop that became world-famous for a bold act of resistance against Nazi propaganda 2. Grande Synagogue de Bruxelles Centerpiece of Brussels’ Jewish community during the occupation 3. Place Poelaert Three major sites of occupation history: the Palais de Justice, Avenue Louise, and the Belgian Infantry Monument. 4. Place du Jeu de Balle This lively square conceals a wartime secret beneath its cobblestones. 5. Rue Haute 60 After Hitler's death, the news gave rise to one of the city’s most unusual acts of public satire. 6. Grand-Place de Bruxelles In September 1944, after 4 years of occupation, Brussels was free once again.