What Sabam is
Sabam is a Belgian copyright management organization based in Brussels. It protects creators’ rights and manages compensation when works are performed, broadcast, or reproduced. It represents composers, lyricists, writers, visual artists, choreographers, filmmakers, and publishers, and supports Belgium’s creative and cultural scene (Sabam official, Unisono).
Its headquarters are in the POP Building at Rue des Deux Églises 41-43, 1000 Brussels, in the European Quarter. Sabam’s role connects creativity, copyright, and culture in the Belgian capital.
History
Sabam was founded in 1922 as the Société d’Auteurs Belge – Belgische Auteurs Maatschappij. It initially served composers and lyricists, then expanded to represent a wider range of creative professionals. Its mission includes ensuring fair compensation for the use of members’ works in Belgium and internationally (Sabam official history).
Sabam is a member of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), whose members manage royalty collections worldwide (CISAC member list). Its digital services include online work registration and royalty management through a digital portal (Sabam digital services). Sabam also played a role in shaping the 2019 EU Copyright Directive, which strengthened creators’ rights online (EU Copyright Directive).
What to see and experience
The POP Building
Designed by René Aerts and Paul Ramon in 1966, the POP Building is a landmark of 1960s modernism. Its bold orange façade, curtain wall design, and symmetrical front and rear elevations distinguish it within Brussels’ European Quarter. A 2006 restoration preserved its visual impact, and its reuse as Sabam’s headquarters represents the conservation of modernist heritage (Admirable Facades).
The building’s exterior can be viewed and photographed. Interior access is generally limited to special events and guided tours.
Sabam’s cultural role
Through Sabam For Culture, Sabam supports cultural projects including festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and theatre productions (Sabam For Culture). Figures given for its support differ: one account says it funds over 1,200 cultural projects annually, while another says it supports over 900 cultural initiatives each year (Sabam). It also distributes tens of millions of euros in royalties annually.
Its support is visible at Brussels events such as Ommegang and Couleur Café. Sabam also supports music festivals, theatre productions, film screenings, and exhibitions across the city.
Practical visiting information
Location and transport
Sabam is at Rue des Deux Églises 41-43, 1000 Brussels, in the European Quarter. The POP Building can be reached by metro from Madou station, by bus or tram, and is within walking distance of Brussels Central Station (Sabam official, Unisono).
Visiting hours and access
Published opening hours differ: one listing gives Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Sabam contact); another gives weekdays, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Public access to the interior is generally limited to scheduled events, open days, or guided tours. General visits do not require tickets, but some workshops and tours may require advance registration. Sabam-supported events may have separate ticketing through their organizers, and special events may require free or low-cost registration. Check the Sabam website for access information.
Sabam occasionally organizes seminars, exhibitions, workshops, and conferences on copyright, digital rights, and creative entrepreneurship. Information about upcoming events is available through the Sabam news page and Brussels cultural listings (Visit Brussels events, Visit Brussels events calendar).
The building and surrounding area are generally accessible, though interior access depends on event security and protocols.
Tips
- Creators can register their works with Sabam for copyright protection and royalty collection (Sabam registration).
- Look for the “Sabam For Culture” logo at festivals and exhibitions supported by the initiative.
- Early morning and late afternoon offer light for photographing the POP Building’s façade.
- City architecture walks that feature the building are listed by Visit Brussels: Architecture Walks.
- Bring ID when attending an event; security checks may take place. Sabam is a working office, so be discreet with photography and movement in public areas.
- Be mindful of belongings in the city centre (Happy to Wander: Brussels Travel Tips).
Nearby places
Mont des Arts
Mont des Arts (Kunstberg) is an open public space accessible year-round, with gardens, panoramic city views, and nearby museums including the Magritte Museum, Bozar, and the Royal Library. Developed in the early 20th century, the area combines landscaped terraces and landmark buildings. Other highlights nearby include the Sablon District and Grand Place.
Most museums open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tickets are sold individually or in combination, and advance booking is advised during busy periods. Mont des Arts is accessible by public transport, including De Brouckère and Parc metro stations. The area is pedestrian-friendly but includes some uphill walking; ramps and elevators are available for visitors with reduced mobility.
Cultural festivals, outdoor art installations, and guided tours take place there throughout the year, with many tours available in multiple languages. The terraces offer photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset. For visitor information and event schedules, see the Visit Brussels website.
Other nearby sites
The Grand Place and Royal Museums of Fine Arts can be combined with a visit to Sabam. The European Quarter also includes architectural sites such as the Berlaymont Building and Parc de Bruxelles (Art Facts: Famous Buildings in Brussels).
Frequently asked questions
What are Sabam’s visiting hours?
Published hours differ: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in one listing, and weekdays, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM in another. Interior access is generally by appointment or during special events.
Is there an entrance fee or ticket required?
There is no fee for viewing the exterior, and general visits do not require tickets. Some workshops, tours, and special events may require registration; Sabam-supported events may have separate ticketing.
Can I take photos inside Sabam?
Interior photography is usually restricted; exterior photography is encouraged.
Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The building and surrounding area are generally accessible, though interior access depends on event protocols.
What cultural events does Sabam support?
Sabam supports festivals, concerts, theatre productions, film screenings, and exhibitions throughout Brussels.