Hôtel van Eetvelde

Hôtel Van Eetvelde, designed by Victor Horta and built between 1895 and 1898, is not just any building: it is a manifesto of Belgian Art Nouveau, an artistic revolution that put Brussels on the world map. As one of Horta’s four major works—along with the Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay, and his own home—this urban palace has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000. This is no coincidence: the Hôtel Van Eetvelde embodies Horta’s radical vision, which fused architecture, art, and craftsmanship into a total work of art. Every detail, from the undulating banister to the colorful stained-glass windows, tells the story of an era in which Brussels was the epicenter of innovation and creativity.

A home as a prestigious reception space

The building was the home of Edmond Van Eetvelde, Secretary-General of the Congo Free State and a key figure in the Belgian colonial era. His wealth and ambition gave Horta carte blanche to create a home that was not only functional but also a work of art in its own right. With Korei Guided Tours, you can delve deeper into this unique heritage: you’ll discover how Horta used light, space, and materials to create a harmonious, organic experience, and how this building continues to inspire architects and artists around the world.

On this tour of the Hôtel Van Eetvelde, you’ll go beyond the façade. Our guides will take you through the impressive rooms, from the majestic winter garden with its elegant iron structures to the salons where Horta’s genius is evident in every detail. You’ll learn about the symbolism behind the decorations, the innovative techniques Horta introduced, and the social context of the Belle Époque, when Brussels became a hotbed of modern art.