Commemorative Plaque For Pensionnat De Demoiselles

Visiting the Commemorative Plaque for Pensionnat de Demoiselles in Brussels: A Complete Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Pensionnat de Demoiselles, also known as Pensionnat Heger, occupies a unique place in literary history as the Brussels boarding school attended by Charlotte and Emily Brontë in the early 1840s. Although the original building was demolished in the early 20th century, a commemorative plaque near the Palais des Beaux-Arts marks its approximate location, preserving the memory of the sisters’ transformative time in Brussels. This guide details the history and legacy of the site, practical visitor information, accessibility, and tips for exploring the broader cultural landscape of Brussels.

Historical Background

The Brontë Connection

In 1842, Charlotte and Emily Brontë traveled from Yorkshire to Brussels to attend the Pensionnat Heger, run by Constantin Heger and his wife Claire Zoë Parent Heger. Their goal was to improve their French and social skills, hoping to open a school in England upon their return. Charlotte’s time at the Pensionnat deeply influenced her novels, especially Villette and The Professor, which reflect her experiences and the atmosphere of 1840s Brussels (The Bulletin; Brussels City Museum).

Demolition and Preservation

The original Pensionnat Heger and the historic Rue d’Isabelle were demolished around 1911 as part of Brussels’ urban redevelopment, and the Palais des Beaux-Arts now occupies this space. To commemorate the Brontë sisters’ time in Brussels, a plaque was installed in 1979 near the original school’s location (Be-monumen.be; The Brussels Brontë Group).

The Commemorative Plaque: Location and Description

Where to Find the Plaque

The commemorative plaque is mounted on the exterior of the Palais des Beaux-Arts (BOZAR), at the intersection of Rue Baron Horta and Rue Ravenstein, close to Mont des Arts and Place Royale. The exact address is:

Palais des Beaux-Arts (BOZAR)
Rue Ravenstein 23, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

The plaque is affixed to the left of the main entrance, at the corner with Rue Baron Horta. This placement is as close as possible to the original school, which was lost to the city’s redevelopment (The Sisters’ Room).

Physical Details

The plaque is a rectangular metal plate, inscribed in English in recognition of the Brontës’ global influence. The text reads:

“Near this site formerly stood the Pensionnat Heger where the writers Charlotte and Emily Brontë studied in 1842–43. This commemorative plaque was placed here by the Brontë Society with the kind permission of the Palais des Beaux-Arts / Paleis voor Schone Kunsten 28-9-79.”

Set against the Art Deco façade of BOZAR, the area is characterized by wide pavements, stone steps, and a blend of historic and modern architecture (Be-monumen.be).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Admission

Access: The plaque is outdoors and can be visited 24/7, year-round.
Admission: There is no entrance fee to view the plaque.

Getting There

Public Transport:
- Metro: Parc/Park (Lines 1 and 5) or Gare Centrale/Centraal Station.
- Train: Brussels Central railway station is nearby.
- On Foot: About 10–15 minutes’ walk from Grand Place; follow signs towards Mont des Arts and BOZAR.
Accessibility:
- The area is generally wheelchair accessible, though Mont des Arts includes some slopes and steps.
- The plaque is mounted at eye level and can be easily photographed.

Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: Daytime for optimal light and safety.
Weather: Brussels weather can be unpredictable—bring an umbrella or raincoat (Lonely Planet).
Amenities: Cafés and public restrooms are available nearby; some may charge a small fee.
Photography: Allowed without restriction; early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring these nearby sites:

Mont des Arts: Urban park with panoramic city views.
Grand Place: Iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Royal Museums of Fine Arts: Houses exceptional Belgian and international art (Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique).
Saint Michael and Gudula Cathedral: Beautiful Gothic cathedral a short walk away.
Parc de Bruxelles: Expansive city park ideal for a peaceful stroll.
BELvue Museum: Dedicated to Belgian history and identity.

Literary Legacy and Cultural Impact

Charlotte Brontë’s Brussels experiences are immortalized in Villette and The Professor, where the city and its school are central to the narrative. Though Emily’s Wuthering Heights does not directly reference Brussels, her letters and poetry from her stay reflect themes of homesickness and alienation that influenced her literary voice (Brussels City Museum).

The Brussels Brontë Group continues to celebrate this legacy, organizing annual conferences, walking tours, and public lectures (The Brussels Brontë Group).

Visitor FAQs

Q: Is there an entrance fee to see the plaque?
A: No, it is free and accessible at all times.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: The Brussels Brontë Group and the Brussels City Museum occasionally offer guided walks and lectures. Check their websites for schedules.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, though some adjacent streets have slopes or cobblestones.

Q: How do I get there from Grand Place?
A: It’s a 10–15 minute walk; follow pedestrian routes toward Mont des Arts and BOZAR.

Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Daylight hours, ideally in spring or early autumn for pleasant weather.

Enhancing Your Experience

Bring a Book: Reading Villette or The Professor before or during your visit will deepen your appreciation.
Join a Walk: Participate in a literary walking tour for expert insights.
Leave a Tribute: Some visitors leave flowers or notes at the plaque in homage to the Brontës.

Visual and Digital Resources

Photographs: Include images of the plaque, Palais des Beaux-Arts, Mont des Arts, and local landmarks (with alt text: “Brontë sisters commemorative plaque Brussels,” “Pensionnat Heger plaque BOZAR,” etc.).
Virtual Tours: Explore online resources through the Brussels City Museum.
Interactive Maps: Use virtual maps to plan your route around the Royal Quarter and literary sites.

Summary & Further Exploration

The commemorative plaque for the Pensionnat de Demoiselles connects Brussels’ present-day cityscape to its rich literary past, marking the formative years of Charlotte and Emily Brontë in the Belgian capital. With its central location, ease of access, and proximity to major cultural attractions, it’s an essential destination for literary enthusiasts and cultural explorers. For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour or using the Audiala app for curated literary walks and audio guides.

References & Further Reading

“Top 10 Historical Sites to Visit in Brussels”
“A Guide to Literary Landmarks in Europe”
“Exploring Women’s Education in 19th Century Europe”
“Brussels Historical Sites: A Cultural Journey”
“The Life and Travels of the Brontë Sisters”
“Literary Tours in Brussels: Exploring Famous Authors’ Footsteps”

Call to Action:
Download the Audiala app for curated literary tours in Brussels, follow us on social media for updates on Brontë-related events, and explore our full collection of guides on European literary heritage.