Liege Train Station – like nothing I had seen before in Europe
The first time I passed through the Liege train station, I was stunned. I looked out my train window and saw curved iron beams, symmetry, and bright sunlight – unike any train station in Europe I had ever been to. However this was not a planned stop for me, so we pulled away as I was trying to snap Instagram photos out the window! A few days later I came across this article – the top 5 train stations in the world worth a stop – and Liege was listed as one of them! Now I really had to stop on my next time through.
For me, a Eurail Pass was not just about the train; it was also about the train stations. Train stations in Europe evoke this old world feel offering gorgeous silhouettes lighting and open spaces. I always feel as if I have stepped back in time when I’m in a European train station – we really don’t have anything like it in the US. However the Liege, Belgium station was unusual – it was modern, sleek, and bright thanks to architect Santiago Calatrava. He literally gave an ancient city a new look. And I’m excited to say that Calatrava also designed a futuristic train station, the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, at the rebuilt World Trade Center in New York City.
I made sure that as I passed through Liege again 2 months later this time I would get out to take some proper photos.
The station opened on September 18, 2009
The station is one of the most important rail hubs in the country.
The open air ‘roof’
The station is used by 36,000 people every day
A view from the street level
Underneath the station
A train on one of the tracks
It has 9 tracks and 5 platforms (three of 450 m and two of 350 m). All the tracks around the station have been modernized to allow high speed arrival and departure.
The sky view
This wasn’t the first time I had been mesmerized by Calatrava’s architecture – I was introduced to him in Valencia, Spain.
By Cat of Sunshine and Siestas May 30, 2013 - 7:16 am
Living in Spain, we hear about Calatrava all the time – in fact, he designed two bridges in my base of Seville. Recently, though, he’s come under fire for his design in the Ysios Winery in Vanguardia, in wine country. Apparently the roof is leaking, and the group that owns the bodega want him to pay up for damages – to the tune of 2 million euros!
By Samantha May 31, 2013 - 12:55 pm
I had no idea Liege’s station was listed among the top 5 to see in the world. I remember being really impressed with it the first time I went to Liege too. It’s a pretty nice city as well, they have these really good flat waffles.
By Maria May 31, 2013 - 6:04 pm
Stunning! so glad you opted for B/W with this series. For me, that type of architecture is heavenly – wouldn’t mind hanging around there 🙂
By Laura @Travelocafe June 1, 2013 - 3:41 pm
I live in Valencia and I really like Calatrava’s architecture. It was a pleasure to read your post and see your photos. I hope one day I’ll get there, too.
By Eurotrip Tips June 2, 2013 - 9:36 pm
So beautiful and modern! Liege is one of the few cities I haven’t visited in Belgium and now I definitely regret not going!
By Nico June 3, 2013 - 5:21 am
I recommend Antwerp’s train stations. IT’s beautifuuul!
By [email protected] June 3, 2013 - 12:29 pm
I’m with Cat of Sunshine. Calatrava’s airport in Loiu (Bilbao) has undergone at least two fairly major reforms in the 5 years I have lived in Bilbao and the Zubizuri (white bridge) is also a really hot local topic, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zubizuri. Your photos are nonetheless gorgeous!
By Lesley Peterson June 13, 2013 - 9:34 pm
Belgium was one of the coolest countries I’ve ever visited–not what I expected! Calatrava is a favorite of mine, we have a spectacular example of his work here in Toronto (Brookfield Place). Liege station definitely looks worth jumping off at. Great photos.
By Emma @ GottaKeepMovin August 27, 2013 - 9:48 am
Some beautiful photos here! I especially love the swooping photos of the open air roof – very cool angle. Thanks for sharing!
By ask March 21, 2015 - 7:47 am
Magnificent web site. Lots of helpful information here.
I am sending it to a few buddies ans also sharing in delicious.
And of course, thanks on your effort!