Brussels: EU Parliament

The EU Parliament building is a huge, rounded building with mirrored surfaces all over. The flags of the nations that make up the EU surround the building. Their bright colors reflect off the mirrored surfaces creating a pretty dramatic effect. It was crowded while we were there, with visitors from all over the world. It seemed to be very inviting and accepting of visitors, which was nice. We didn’t get to go through the whole building, but what we saw gave us enough information to let us know that the EU Parliament is part of what makes Brussels central to the European Union. 

 This building is not as old as many of the other buildings we have toured. It definitely had a more modern feel to it as it was built in the 20th century, but it represents the goal of unity and peace that exists in Europe. It represents the voice of the EU and the decision making process of that body. I think the glass that surrounds the building represents the transparency of the meetings and sessions that occur there, where citizens can observe openly. The building serves as a recognizable landmark in Brussels and often hosts important events and meetings with international delegates.

 The EU Parliament building contributes to Brussels’ status as a cultural capital because it draws people from all over, not only from Europe but from around the world. People come there to discuss issues that affect millions of people. It has to be inviting and peaceful at the same time. I feel like this building achieves that. Because the EU Parliament building draws in so many, it helps to create and foster a cultural melting pot in the city. Artists, musicians and vendors from around the world come together in Brussels and makes it such a lively and colorful place to visit.