Visiting Monument au Pigeon-Soldat in Brussels: Tips, History, and Visitor Information

Publication Date: 20/07/2024

Introduction

The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat, also known as the Monument aan de Oorlogsduif, is a unique war memorial located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. Situated in the Parc du Cinquantenaire, this monument honors the homing pigeons and their handlers who played crucial roles during World War I and World War II. The idea for this monument emerged in the early 20th century, recognizing the indispensable service of these birds in wartime (Smithsonian Magazine, Visit Brussels).

The monument, designed by Belgian sculptor Victor Voets and inaugurated in 1931, features a bronze pigeon perched atop a granite pedestal. This design symbolizes the bravery and service of homing pigeons, which were used extensively to carry messages across enemy lines when other forms of communication were compromised. The location in Brussels is significant, as the city served as a central hub for military operations and communications during both World Wars. The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat not only highlights the innovative methods used during these conflicts but also commemorates the broader historical context of the wars themselves.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information for visiting the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat. From its historical context and architectural design to visitor tips and nearby attractions, you will find a detailed overview to enrich your visit to this notable site.

Table of Contents

History of Monument au Pigeon-Soldat

Origins and Inception

The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat is dedicated to the homing pigeons and their handlers who played a crucial role during World War I and World War II. The idea for the monument was conceived in the early 20th century, recognizing the indispensable service of these birds in wartime communication.

Role of Homing Pigeons in Warfare

Homing pigeons have been used for centuries for their remarkable ability to return to their home lofts over long distances. During World War I, these birds were used extensively to carry messages across enemy lines when other forms of communication were unreliable or compromised. It is estimated that over 100,000 pigeons were used by the Allied forces during the war (Smithsonian Magazine).

One of the most famous pigeons, Cher Ami, delivered a crucial message that saved nearly 200 soldiers of the Lost Battalion in 1918. Cher Ami was awarded the French Croix de Guerre for bravery. The use of pigeons continued into World War II, where they were used in various operations, including the D-Day landings.

Construction and Design

The monument was designed by Belgian sculptor Victor Voets and was inaugurated on April 22, 1931. The design features a bronze pigeon perched atop a granite pedestal, symbolizing the bravery and service of these birds. The pedestal is inscribed with dedications in both French and Dutch, reflecting Belgium’s bilingual heritage.

The choice of location in Brussels is significant, as the city was a central hub for military operations and communications during both World Wars. The monument stands in the Parc du Cinquantenaire, a prominent public park that also houses other historical monuments and museums (Visit Brussels).

Historical Significance

The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat serves as a poignant reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of animals in warfare. It highlights the innovative methods used during times of conflict and the bravery of the handlers who trained and cared for these pigeons. The monument also underscores the broader historical context of World War I and World War II, where communication was a critical component of military strategy.

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

For those planning to visit the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat, it is easily accessible via public transportation. The nearest metro station is Merode, which is a short walk from the Parc du Cinquantenaire. The park itself is open year-round, and there is no admission fee to visit the monument. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding park and other historical sites within the vicinity (STIB-MIVB).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

The Parc du Cinquantenaire, where the monument is located, is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There is no ticket required to visit the monument, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Special Tours and Events

The monument is a focal point for various commemorative events, particularly on Armistice Day (November 11) and during the annual Pigeon Fanciers’ Day. These events attract historians, military enthusiasts, and pigeon fanciers from around the world. Special guided tours are sometimes available during these events, offering deeper insights into the history and significance of the monument.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat, be sure to explore other nearby attractions within the Parc du Cinquantenaire. These include the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, the Art & History Museum, and the iconic Cinquantenaire Arch. These sites offer a comprehensive understanding of Belgium’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Preservation and Restoration

Over the years, the monument has undergone several restoration efforts to preserve its structural integrity and historical significance. The most recent restoration was completed in 2018, coinciding with the centenary of the end of World War I. These efforts are supported by both governmental and non-governmental organizations dedicated to preserving Belgium’s wartime heritage (Brussels Heritage).

Educational Impact

The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat also serves an educational purpose. It is a focal point for school trips and educational tours, where students learn about the role of animals in warfare and the broader historical context of the World Wars. The monument is often included in guided tours of Brussels’ historical sites, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the city’s wartime history.

Cultural Representation

The monument has also found its place in popular culture, featuring in various documentaries, books, and articles that explore the history of wartime communication. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of those who served during the wars, both human and avian.

FAQ

What is the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat?

The Monument au Pigeon-Soldat is a war memorial in Brussels, Belgium, dedicated to the homing pigeons and their handlers who played a crucial role during World War I and World War II.

Where is the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat located?

The monument is located in the Parc du Cinquantenaire in Brussels, Belgium.

Is there an admission fee to visit the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat?

No, there is no admission fee to visit the monument.

What are the visiting hours for the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat?

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Are there any special tours available?

Special guided tours are sometimes available during commemorative events like Armistice Day and the annual Pigeon Fanciers’ Day.

Conclusion

In summary, the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat is not just a tribute to the war pigeons but also a symbol of the innovative and often overlooked aspects of wartime history. Its historical significance, coupled with its educational and cultural impact, makes it a must-visit site for anyone interested in the history of World War I and World War II. Plan your visit today and explore the rich history that Brussels has to offer.

References

  • Visiting the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat - History, Tickets, and Tips for Exploring Brussels’ Unique War Memorial, 2023, Smithsonian Magazine
  • Visiting the Monument au Pigeon-Soldat - History, Tickets, and Tips for Exploring Brussels’ Unique War Memorial, 2023, Visit Brussels
  • Essential Visitor Tips for Monument au Pigeon-Soldat - Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Sites in Brussels, 2023, STIB-MIVB
  • Essential Visitor Tips for Monument au Pigeon-Soldat - Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Sites in Brussels, 2023, Brussels Heritage

Visit The Most Interesting Places In City Of Brussels

16 Rue De La Loi / Wetstraat
16 Rue De La Loi / Wetstraat
Abraham Ortelius
Abraham Ortelius
Academy Palace
Academy Palace
Adolphe Max Memorial
Adolphe Max Memorial
Allée Des Coursiers - Renpaardendreef
Allée Des Coursiers - Renpaardendreef
Ancienne Belgique
Ancienne Belgique
Anderlecht Gate
Anderlecht Gate
Anneessens Premetro Station
Anneessens Premetro Station
Arc Du Cinquantenaire
Arc Du Cinquantenaire
Archief En Museum Voor Het Vlaams Leven Te Brussel
Archief En Museum Voor Het Vlaams Leven Te Brussel
Archives Et Musée De La Littérature
Archives Et Musée De La Littérature
Archives Of The City Of Brussels
Archives Of The City Of Brussels
Art & History Museum
Art & History Museum
Atomium
Atomium
Autoworld
Autoworld
Autrique House
Autrique House
Avenue Louise - Louizalaan
Avenue Louise - Louizalaan
Baron Jean De Sélys Longchamps
Baron Jean De Sélys Longchamps
Baron Lemonnier
Baron Lemonnier
Beersel Castle
Beersel Castle
Belgian Centre For Comic Strip Art
Belgian Centre For Comic Strip Art
Bellona House
Bellona House
Belvédère Castle
Belvédère Castle
Belvue
Belvue
Berlaymont Building
Berlaymont Building
Berlin Wall Memorial
Berlin Wall Memorial
Bernard Van Orley
Bernard Van Orley
Beyaert Tower
Beyaert Tower
Black Tower
Black Tower
Bluesette Melody
Bluesette Melody
Bockstael Metro Station
Bockstael Metro Station
Bockstael Railway Station
Bockstael Railway Station
Boghossian Foundation
Boghossian Foundation
Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos
Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos
Botanique/Kruidtuin Metro Station
Botanique/Kruidtuin Metro Station
Boulevard Adolphe Max - Adolphe Maxlaan
Boulevard Adolphe Max - Adolphe Maxlaan
Boulevard Anspach - Anspachlaan
Boulevard Anspach - Anspachlaan
Boulevard Du Roi Albert Ii - Koning Albert Ii-Laan
Boulevard Du Roi Albert Ii - Koning Albert Ii-Laan
Bourse-Grand-Place - Beurs-Grote Markt Premetro Station
Bourse-Grand-Place - Beurs-Grote Markt Premetro Station
Bozar
Bozar
Bridgettines Chapel
Bridgettines Chapel
Bronks
Bronks
Brussels Allée-Verte Railway Station
Brussels Allée-Verte Railway Station
Brussels Central
Brussels Central
Brussels-Central Railway Station
Brussels-Central Railway Station
Brussels-Chapel Station
Brussels-Chapel Station
Brussels City Museum
Brussels City Museum
Brussels-Congress Station
Brussels-Congress Station
Brussels Expo
Brussels Expo
Brussels Park
Brussels Park
Brussels Planetarium
Brussels Planetarium
Brussels-Schuman Station
Brussels-Schuman Station
Brussels Stock Exchange
Brussels Stock Exchange
Brussels Town Hall
Brussels Town Hall
Buda Bridge
Buda Bridge
Bust Of Antoine Depage
Bust Of Antoine Depage
Bust Of Paul Janson
Bust Of Paul Janson
Bust Of Robert Schuman
Bust Of Robert Schuman
Bust Of Salvator Allende
Bust Of Salvator Allende
Capteurs De Ciel
Capteurs De Ciel
Cardinal Mercier
Cardinal Mercier
Cathedral Of St. Michael And St. Gudula
Cathedral Of St. Michael And St. Gudula
Cauchie House
Cauchie House
Centrale For Contemporary Art
Centrale For Contemporary Art
Chapel Of The Resurrection, Brussels
Chapel Of The Resurrection, Brussels
Charlemagne Building
Charlemagne Building
Château Du Stuyvenberg
Château Du Stuyvenberg
Chaussée De Haecht - Haachtsesteenweg
Chaussée De Haecht - Haachtsesteenweg
Chaussée De Wavre - Waversesteenweg
Chaussée De Wavre - Waversesteenweg
Choco-Story Brussels
Choco-Story Brussels
Church Of Our Lady Of Finisterrae
Church Of Our Lady Of Finisterrae
Church Of Our Lady Of Laeken
Church Of Our Lady Of Laeken
Church Of Our Lady Of The Chapel
Church Of Our Lady Of The Chapel
Church Of Saint Jacques-Sur-Coudenberg
Church Of Saint Jacques-Sur-Coudenberg
Ciné Rio
Ciné Rio
Cinematek
Cinematek
Cinquantenaire Park
Cinquantenaire Park
Cinquantenaire Tunnel
Cinquantenaire Tunnel
Clinique Saint-Jean
Clinique Saint-Jean
Comme Chez Soi
Comme Chez Soi
Commemorative Plaque For Pensionnat De Demoiselles
Commemorative Plaque For Pensionnat De Demoiselles
Comte De Smet De Naeyer Memorial
Comte De Smet De Naeyer Memorial
Congress Column
Congress Column
Convent Van Maerlant
Convent Van Maerlant
Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels
Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels
De Brouckère Square
De Brouckère Square
De Brouckère Station
De Brouckère Station
De Saint-Cyr House
De Saint-Cyr House
Design Museum Brussels
Design Museum Brussels
Eggevoort Tower
Eggevoort Tower
Egmont Palace
Egmont Palace
Embassy Of Armenia In Belgium
Embassy Of Armenia In Belgium
Embassy Of Germany, Brussels
Embassy Of Germany, Brussels
Embassy Of Norway, Brussels
Embassy Of Norway, Brussels
Embassy Of Sweden To Belgium
Embassy Of Sweden To Belgium
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Brussels
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Brussels
Embassy Of The United States, Brussels
Embassy Of The United States, Brussels
Embassy Of Venezuela In Belgium
Embassy Of Venezuela In Belgium
Equestrian Statue Of Leopold Ⅱ
Equestrian Statue Of Leopold Ⅱ
Espace Léopold
Espace Léopold
Et Oeis Van ’T Brussels
Et Oeis Van ’T Brussels
Europa Building
Europa Building
Faculteit Voor Protestantse Godgeleerdheid
Faculteit Voor Protestantse Godgeleerdheid
Fashion & Lace Museum
Fashion & Lace Museum
Fin-De-Siècle Museum
Fin-De-Siècle Museum
Finance Tower
Finance Tower
First Fortifications Of Brussels
First Fortifications Of Brussels
Flanders Arts Institute
Flanders Arts Institute
Flanders Gate
Flanders Gate
Fortifications Of Brussels
Fortifications Of Brussels
Foundation Frison Horta
Foundation Frison Horta
François-Auguste Gevaert
François-Auguste Gevaert
Garderobe Mannekenpis
Garderobe Mannekenpis
Gerardus Mercator
Gerardus Mercator
Grand-Place
Grand-Place
Great Mosque Of Brussels
Great Mosque Of Brussels
Great Synagogue Of Europe
Great Synagogue Of Europe
Groot-Bijgaarden Castle
Groot-Bijgaarden Castle
Halle Gate
Halle Gate
Halle Gate Museum
Halle Gate Museum
Halls Of Saint Gaugericus
Halls Of Saint Gaugericus
Haren Railway Station
Haren Railway Station
Haren-South Railway Station
Haren-South Railway Station
Hendrik Van Brederode
Hendrik Van Brederode
Henry Le Bœuf Hall
Henry Le Bœuf Hall
Herman Teirlinckgebouw
Herman Teirlinckgebouw
Het Zinneke
Het Zinneke
Horta Museum
Horta Museum
Hôtel De Spangen
Hôtel De Spangen
Hôtel Des Douanes
Hôtel Des Douanes
Hôtel Des Monnaies/Munthof Metro Station
Hôtel Des Monnaies/Munthof Metro Station
Hôtel Des Postes Et De La Marine
Hôtel Des Postes Et De La Marine
Hôtel Du Lotto
Hôtel Du Lotto
Hotel Errera
Hotel Errera
Hotel Metropole, Brussels
Hotel Metropole, Brussels
Hôtel Solvay
Hôtel Solvay
Hôtel Tassel
Hôtel Tassel
Hôtel Van Eetvelde
Hôtel Van Eetvelde
Houba-Brugmann Metro Station
Houba-Brugmann Metro Station
House Of European History
House Of European History
Ing Arena
Ing Arena
|
  Institut Supérieur Pour L'Etude Du Langage Plastique
| Institut Supérieur Pour L'Etude Du Langage Plastique
Ixelles Ponds
Ixelles Ponds
Jan Baptist Van Helmont Memorial
Jan Baptist Van Helmont Memorial
Japanese Tower
Japanese Tower
Jean De Locquengien
Jean De Locquengien
Jeanneke Pis
Jeanneke Pis
Jewish Museum Of Belgium
Jewish Museum Of Belgium
Jose Rizal Historical Marker
Jose Rizal Historical Marker
Justus Lipsius Building
Justus Lipsius Building
K1
K1
|
  Kaaitstudio'S
| Kaaitstudio'S
Kanal - Centre Pompidou
Kanal - Centre Pompidou
Katholieke Universiteit Leuven Campus Brussel
Katholieke Universiteit Leuven Campus Brussel
King Baudouin Metro Station
King Baudouin Metro Station
King Baudouin Stadium
King Baudouin Stadium
Kings Gallery
Kings Gallery
|
  King'S House
| King'S House
Kunst-Wet/Arts-Loi Metro Station
Kunst-Wet/Arts-Loi Metro Station
La Cambre Abbey
La Cambre Abbey
Laeken Churchyard
Laeken Churchyard
Laeken City Gate
Laeken City Gate
Laeken Railway Station
Laeken Railway Station
Lambermont
Lambermont
Le Messager – Aux Enfants Disparus - De Bode – Aan De Vermiste Kinderen
Le Messager – Aux Enfants Disparus - De Bode – Aan De Vermiste Kinderen
Lemonnier Premetro Station
Lemonnier Premetro Station
Leopold Park
Leopold Park
Les Brigittines
Les Brigittines
Les Grands Carmes
Les Grands Carmes
Leuven Gate
Leuven Gate
Lex Building
Lex Building
Louis Van Bodeghem
Louis Van Bodeghem
Louise/Louiza Metro Station
Louise/Louiza Metro Station
Madou Metro Station
Madou Metro Station
Maelbeek/Maalbeek Metro Station
Maelbeek/Maalbeek Metro Station
Maison Du Peuple
Maison Du Peuple
Maison Du Pigeon - De Duif
Maison Du Pigeon - De Duif
Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis
Mazui
Mazui
Memorial To Groupe G
Memorial To Groupe G
Midi Fair
Midi Fair
Military Hospital Queen Astrid
Military Hospital Queen Astrid
Millennium Iconoclast Museum Of Art
Millennium Iconoclast Museum Of Art
Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe
|
  Mission Of The People'S Republic Of China To The European Union
| Mission Of The People'S Republic Of China To The European Union
Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg
Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg
Monument Gabrielle Petit
Monument Gabrielle Petit
Monument To Pierre Van Humbeeck
Monument To Pierre Van Humbeeck
Monument To The Belgian Pioneers In Congo
Monument To The Belgian Pioneers In Congo
Monument To The Marolles
Monument To The Marolles
Monument To The War Pigeon
Monument To The War Pigeon
Museum Of Natural Sciences Of Belgium
Museum Of Natural Sciences Of Belgium
Museum Of Original Figurines
Museum Of Original Figurines
Museum Van De Nationale Bank Van België
Museum Van De Nationale Bank Van België
Museum Voor Dierkunde Ulb Auguste Lameere
Museum Voor Dierkunde Ulb Auguste Lameere
Museums Of The Far East
Museums Of The Far East
Musical Instruments Museum
Musical Instruments Museum
Namur Gate
Namur Gate
National Archives Of Belgium
National Archives Of Belgium
National Bank Of Belgium
National Bank Of Belgium
National Basilica Of The Sacred Heart
National Basilica Of The Sacred Heart
National Geographic Institute
National Geographic Institute
Nato Headquarters
Nato Headquarters
Nato Star
Nato Star
New University Of Brussels
New University Of Brussels
Ninove Gate
Ninove Gate
Obelisk Anspach
Obelisk Anspach
Old England
Old England
Old Masters Museum
Old Masters Museum
Onument
Onument
Our Blessed Lady Of Zavel Church
Our Blessed Lady Of Zavel Church
Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho
Our Lady Of The Rose Planted In Jericho
Palace
Palace
Palace Of Charles Of Lorraine
Palace Of Charles Of Lorraine
Palace Of Coudenberg
Palace Of Coudenberg
Palace Of Fine Arts
Palace Of Fine Arts
Palace Of Justice
Palace Of Justice
Palace Of The Nation
Palace Of The Nation
Pannenhuis Metro Station
Pannenhuis Metro Station
Park Metro Station
Park Metro Station
Parlamentarium
Parlamentarium
Passage Du Nord - Noorddoorgang
Passage Du Nord - Noorddoorgang
Paul Claudel
Paul Claudel
Pavilion Of Human Passions
Pavilion Of Human Passions
Pentagon
Pentagon
Permanent Mission Of Sweden To The European Union
Permanent Mission Of Sweden To The European Union
Philips Of Marnix, Lord Of Saint-Aldegonde
Philips Of Marnix, Lord Of Saint-Aldegonde
Place De La Bourse - Beursplein
Place De La Bourse - Beursplein
Place De La Résistance - Verzetsplein
Place De La Résistance - Verzetsplein
Place Des Martyrs - Martelaarsplein
Place Des Martyrs - Martelaarsplein
Place Du Grand Sablon - Grote Zavel
Place Du Grand Sablon - Grote Zavel
Place Du Jeu De Balle - Vossenplein
Place Du Jeu De Balle - Vossenplein
Place Du Luxembourg
Place Du Luxembourg
Place Poelaert - Poelaertplein
Place Poelaert - Poelaertplein
Place Rogier - Rogierplein
Place Rogier - Rogierplein
Place Royale - Koningsplein
Place Royale - Koningsplein
Plaque Of Lord Byron
Plaque Of Lord Byron
Pocket Theater
Pocket Theater
Porte De Hal/Hallepoort Metro Station
Porte De Hal/Hallepoort Metro Station
Porte De Namur/Naamsepoort Metro Station
Porte De Namur/Naamsepoort Metro Station
Prince Charles-Joseph De Ligne
Prince Charles-Joseph De Ligne
Prison Of Haren
Prison Of Haren
|
  Queen Fabiola Children'S University Hospital
| Queen Fabiola Children'S University Hospital
Rembert Dodoens
Rembert Dodoens
Residence Palace
Residence Palace
Royal Castle Of Laeken
Royal Castle Of Laeken
Royal Chapel
Royal Chapel
Royal Circus
Royal Circus
Royal Crypt
Royal Crypt
Royal Library Of Belgium
Royal Library Of Belgium
Royal Military Academy
Royal Military Academy
Royal Military Museum
Royal Military Museum
Royal Museums Of Fine Arts Of Belgium
Royal Museums Of Fine Arts Of Belgium
Royal Palace
Royal Palace
Royal Park Theatre
Royal Park Theatre
Royal Railway Station
Royal Railway Station
Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries
Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries
Royal Theatre Of La Monnaie
Royal Theatre Of La Monnaie
Royal Toone Theatre
Royal Toone Theatre
Sabam
Sabam
Saint Catherine Church
Saint Catherine Church
Saint-Catherine/Sint-Katelijne Metro Station
Saint-Catherine/Sint-Katelijne Metro Station
Saint John And Saint Stephen Church
Saint John And Saint Stephen Church
Saint John The Baptist At The Béguinage
Saint John The Baptist At The Béguinage
Saint Nicholas Church
Saint Nicholas Church
Saint-Pierre Hospital
Saint-Pierre Hospital
Schaarbeek Railway Station
Schaarbeek Railway Station
Schuman
Schuman
Schuman Roundabout
Schuman Roundabout
Sentier Des Adonides - Adonissenpad
Sentier Des Adonides - Adonissenpad
Senzanome
Senzanome
Sewer Museum
Sewer Museum
Statbel
Statbel
State Administrative Center
State Administrative Center
State Archives Of Belgium
State Archives Of Belgium
Statue Of Brialmont
Statue Of Brialmont
Statue Of Francisco De Paula Santander
Statue Of Francisco De Paula Santander
Statue Of Henri Pirenne
Statue Of Henri Pirenne
Stuyvenbergh Metro Station
Stuyvenbergh Metro Station
Taipei Representative Office In The Eu And Belgium
Taipei Representative Office In The Eu And Belgium
The King Of Spain
The King Of Spain
The Swan
The Swan
Theater Of The Place Of Martyrs
Theater Of The Place Of Martyrs
Théâtre De Verdure - Groentheater
Théâtre De Verdure - Groentheater
Théâtre La Montagne Magique
Théâtre La Montagne Magique
Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles
Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles
Théâtre Royal Des Galeries
Théâtre Royal Des Galeries
Tour And Taxis Railway Station
Tour And Taxis Railway Station
Toy Museum
Toy Museum
Train World
Train World
Trône/Troon Metro Station
Trône/Troon Metro Station
United States Mission To Nato
United States Mission To Nato
United States Mission To The European Union
United States Mission To The European Union
Vaartkapoen
Vaartkapoen
|
  Václav Havel'S Place In Brussels
| Václav Havel'S Place In Brussels
Villa Empain
Villa Empain
Vischhuis
Vischhuis
World Trade Center
World Trade Center
Yser/Ijzer Metro Station
Yser/Ijzer Metro Station