Art in Progress - Brussels Flower Carpet
This weekend something very special is happening in Belgium, and it only comes around every 2 years; the Flower Carpet. This Belgian tradition started in 1971 with the first Flower Carpet being laid in the famous Grand Place of Brussels. Begonias are the star flower and they are packed together one by one, 300 to every square meter of the ground, (+/- 750.000 flowers) so tightly (no soil is used at all) that they won’t be blown away by the first puff of wind, and they create their own microclimate.
I’m in Brussels for the month of August so I decided to go check out the making of the carpet which is planned months in advance but the execution and placement of the flowers only takes around 7 hrs. It was a stormy day in Brussels, but the volunteers were still out placing each Begonia in it’s specified place!
To see more travel photos, check out Briefcase to Backpack’s Photo Friday!
Isn’t it fabulous. I had no idea that they are done in Belgium. Here on Tenerife several towns, famously La Orotava, make them for Corpus Cristi in June. You must come and see them one year!
Wow, this is so beautiful!
What an artwork this is – and in such a huge and impressive square. Were you aware this was on before you travelled or was this one of those great fortunate travel right-place-right-time moments?
It was pure luck on my part! I had no idea is was happening – but happy that I was there to see it!
Every time I think I’ve found all the reasons there are to love Brussels, another one comes along. Thanks for reminding me!
I agree….great photo. Luck is where preparedness meets opportunity.
Vago
Beautiful tradition! I’ve never heard about it before, thank you)
I’ve seen multiple pictures of the flower carpet and I love it every time! Like the look of the clouds in your shot. .
Gorgeous shot Sherry! I’m sad I missed it again this year but at least I can see it by proxy