Bust Of Antoine Depage

Bust of Antoine Depage: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Brussels Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the vibrant heart of Brussels, the Bust of Antoine Depage stands as a distinguished tribute to one of Belgium’s most influential surgeons, educators, and humanitarians. Crafted by renowned sculptor Godefroid Devreese, this bronze monument not only honors Depage’s pioneering work in surgery, nursing education, and wartime medical care, but also embodies the enduring humanitarian and social values he championed. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a medical professional, or a curious traveler, visiting this site offers a meaningful encounter with Belgium’s rich medical and humanitarian legacy (Wikipedia; Brussels Remembers; UCLouvain Heritage).

This comprehensive guide details the bust’s historical and cultural significance, provides practical visitor information—including accessibility, transport, and visiting hours—and highlights nearby attractions to enrich your Brussels itinerary.

Contents Overview

Historical Significance of the Antoine Depage Bust
Location and Accessibility
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Artistic and Architectural Overview
Historical and Cultural Impact
Nearby Attractions and Recommendations
Special Events and Guided Tours
Photography Tips
Conservation and Legacy
Plan Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sources

Historical Significance of the Antoine Depage Bust

Antoine Depage (1862–1925) was a visionary Belgian surgeon whose leadership during the Balkan Wars and World War I revolutionized battlefield medicine and nursing education. He founded Belgium’s first secular nursing school and played a central role in organizing humanitarian medical response during times of crisis. The bust, prominently located in Brussels, stands as a powerful symbol of his enduring legacy and commitment to medical innovation and social progress (Wikipedia; UCLouvain Heritage).

Location and Accessibility

Monument Location

The Bust of Antoine Depage is situated at the corner of Place Georges Brugmann and Rue Joseph Stallaert, adjacent to the former Centre de Santé de la Croix-Rouge de Belgique and near the Institut chirurgical Berkendael—an institution closely associated with Depage’s career (Himetop; Brussels Remembers).

Getting There

Metro: Lines 2 & 6 to Louise/Louiza station (10-min walk).
Tram: Lines 8 and 93 stop near Avenue Louise.
Bus: Multiple routes serve the Ixelles district.
Train: Brussels Central Station is within walking distance of many central landmarks.
Car: Limited street parking available; public transport is recommended.

Accessibility

The site is on a paved, level area and is wheelchair accessible. Brussels offers robust accessibility features, including lifts in metro stations, audible pedestrian signals, and adapted taxis. For detailed information, consult the Handy.Brussels guide.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Hours: Open 24/7 (outdoor public monument)
Admission: Free; no tickets required

For the best experience, visit during daylight hours. Early mornings and weekdays are recommended for a quieter atmosphere.

Artistic and Architectural Overview

Sculptor and Design

The bust was created in 1926 by Godefroid Devreese, a leading Belgian sculptor known for expressive realism (Wikimedia Commons). The bronze bust, mounted on a stone base designed by architect J.B. Dewin, features an inscription: “FONDATION / ANTOINE ET MARIE / DEPAGE” and the years 1862–1925 (Himetop). The contemplative expression and formal attire reflect Depage’s stature and lifelong dedication to public health.

Symbolism

The monument’s location near medical institutions and its modest, dignified design symbolize Depage’s legacy as a humanitarian and innovator. The surrounding greenery and integration with nearby architecture create a space for reflection and remembrance.

Historical and Cultural Impact

The bust commemorates Antoine Depage’s pivotal role in modernizing surgery and professionalizing nursing in Belgium. His work with the Belgian Red Cross and his establishment of L’École Belge d’Infirmières Diplômées marked a turning point in medical care, embracing secular, evidence-based practice (Pelteret, 2022). The monument also honors the sacrifices of his family—including his wife Marie, lost on the RMS Lusitania, and Edith Cavell, executed during WWI (Traces of War; Brussels Remembers).

Nearby Attractions and Recommendations

Combine your visit to the Bust of Antoine Depage with nearby sites:

Avenue Louise: A lively shopping street with boutiques and cafés
Parc Tenbosch: A tranquil green space for relaxation
Ixelles and Saint-Gilles: Neighborhoods renowned for Art Nouveau architecture
Royal Museums of Fine Arts, Parc de Bruxelles, and Grand-Place: Key cultural and historical attractions

Special Events and Guided Tours

The bust is featured in guided walking tours focused on Brussels’ medical history and World War I heritage. Commemorative events are held on significant anniversaries, drawing medical professionals, historians, and the public. For tour schedules, see visit.brussels.

Photography Tips

Photography is allowed and encouraged. For the best results:

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for optimal natural light
Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the monument and its surroundings
Be respectful; avoid climbing or touching the sculpture

Conservation and Legacy

Maintained by local heritage organizations, the bust is regularly cleaned and protected to preserve its appearance (Collections Heritage Brussels). The monument remains a focal point for educational programs and commemorative events, inspiring ongoing reflection on humanitarian and medical values.

Plan Your Visit

Facilities: Benches and green spaces for reflection; public restrooms and Wi-Fi available nearby
Visitor Tips: Respect the monument’s commemorative character; keep valuables secure; consult Handy.Brussels for accessibility details
Travel Essentials: Weather can be unpredictable—bring an umbrella or raincoat. Consider the Brussels Card for museum and transport discounts.
Souvenirs: Brussels-themed gifts are available at local tourist offices.

Download the Audiala app for audio guides and up-to-date information on Brussels’ cultural sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No; the bust is a free, public monument accessible at all times.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes; the area is flat and paved, with accessible transport nearby.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes; the bust is included in some historical walking tours. Check with visit.brussels for details.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Absolutely. Photography is welcome—please avoid flash for preservation.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Weekday mornings or early afternoons during spring and summer offer pleasant, quieter visits.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Bust of Antoine Depage in Brussels Alt text: Bronze Bust of Antoine Depage located in Brussels, Belgium.

Consider including a map with the monument’s location and links to virtual tours for an enhanced visitor experience.

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

The Bust of Antoine Depage serves as a testament to the enduring impact of a visionary surgeon and humanitarian. Free and accessible year-round, the monument invites visitors to reflect on Belgium’s medical heritage and the universal ideals of compassion, innovation, and public service. Enhance your visit by exploring nearby attractions and participating in guided tours or commemorative events. For more resources and updates, download the Audiala app and consult official Brussels tourism channels. Your journey through Brussels’ history and culture begins here!