Villa Empain, a true gem of Art Deco architecture, is an essential player in the Brussels cultural scene.

Commissioned by Baron Louis Empain in the early 1930s, this sumptuous residence, located on Avenue Franklin-Roosevelt, was designed by the Swiss architect Michel Polak. Built on a vast 55-are plot, it combines elegance and restraint with its polished granite facades and refined materials such as marble, bronze, and wrought iron. From its construction, the villa has been distinguished by the exceptional quality of its architectural details, reinforcing its heritage importance within the Brussels urban landscape.

Over the decades, the Villa Empain has undergone numerous transformations. Initially a private residence, it became successively a museum, an embassy, ​​and even the headquarters of the RTL television network. However, it was left abandoned in the 1980s, falling victim to vandalism and gradual deterioration. Finally, in 2006, the Boghossian Foundation decided to save it from irreversible decline by undertaking a meticulous restoration, which was completed in 2010. The project was a resounding success, with the villa being awarded the Europa Nostra Prize for the exceptional quality of its restoration.

Since opening to the public in 2010, the Villa Empain has established itself as a center for art and dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures. This unique venue fulfills several objectives: promoting culture, art, science, and education through diverse exhibitions and events. The Boghossian Foundation, established in 1992 by Robert Boghossian and his sons Jean and Albert, has expanded its philanthropic mission, which initially focused on supporting young people in Armenia and Lebanon, to include the promotion of intercultural dialogue.

In addition to the prestigious exhibitions held at Villa Empain, the foundation supports artistic creation through prizes and artist residencies. The former gatehouse, meticulously restored, now welcomes artists from around the world, offering a space conducive to inspiration and exchange. The artist residency allows talented individuals, particularly from the Middle East and Armenia, to immerse themselves in a stimulating environment while benefiting from an international network of artists and thinkers.

Under the leadership of Louma Salamé since 2016, the Boghossian Foundation continues to play a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange. With over 600,000 visitors since its opening, the Villa Empain remains a vibrant testament to the richness of Brussels' heritage, while also serving as a hub for ideas and contemporary creativity, true to its ambition of fostering dialogue between cultures.

VILLAEMPAIN.COM