Subtheme 2

Borders and Everyday Life: Bordering as Practice

Focusing on the material and symbolic practices that shape everyday experiences of borders in Brussels.

Source: Europa Nostra

Europa Nostra

About

Europa Nostra, which translates to "Our Europe" in Latin, is a pan-European federation dedicated to safeguarding cultural and natural heritage, with a focus on integrating heritage preservation into public consciousness and policy at both European and national levels. The organization emphasizes the importance of heritage as a key component of European identity, advocating for its value in fostering a sense of belonging and unity among European citizens. By promoting heritage as a fundamental element of Europe’s shared cultural legacy, Europa Nostra aims to strengthen the connection between citizens and their cultural roots, ensuring that heritage remains an integral part of Europe’s social and cultural fabric.

Visit Details

When:

Wednesday, April 9 at 10:00 am

Where:

Europa Nostra’s liaison office in Brussels

Rue de l'Industrie/Nijverheidstraat 10

Who We Will Meet

Mr. Jimmy Jamar (Executive Vice-President):

A veteran of European policy with extensive experience in law, international relations, and heritage advocacy.

Ms. Antigoni Michael (Manager, 7 Most Endangered Programme):

A cultural heritage specialist whose work in conflict-affected regions underscores the role of heritage in fostering community cohesion and trust.

Relevance

Their work illustrates the everyday act of “bordering” through community engagement and cultural expression while also demonstrating that heritage can transform local identities and practice.

Key Activities:

Lobbying for cultural heritage in Europe
Saving endangered monuments, sites, and landscapes via campaigns like the 7 Most Endangered Programme

Discussion Focus Tips

Focus on how cultural heritage can bridge divided communities and serve as a unifying force across borders. Discuss the impact of political and symbolic boundaries on heritage preservation and accessibility, drawing on Europa Nostra’s work in cross-border collaborations. Other key topics:

How do everyday practices shape perceptions of borders and influence cultural identity?
What role can cultural heritage play in fostering peace and mutual understanding?
How can local communities be effectively engaged in cross-border heritage initiatives?

BELvue Museum

About

The BELvue Museum in Brussels is a museum dedicated to Belgium’s history, democracy, and culture. Located next to the Royal Palace, it offers a deep dive into the country’s past, from its independence in 1830 to modern-day society. The museum uses interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and multimedia presentations to explore key themes such as governance, migration, and social progress. It also highlights Belgium’s monarchy, its role in European integration, and the evolution of its institutions. With a rich collection of documents, photographs, and personal testimonies, the BELvue Museum provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors.

Source: BELvue Museum

BELvue Website

Relevance

The Museum dives into how visible and invisible borders are created, reinforced, and challenged in Belgian society. The museum’s permanent exhibition is built around seven key themes: democracy, prosperity, solidarity, pluralism, migration, language, and Europe. Through these topics, visitors better understand how different types of borders - physical, social, and symbolic - have shaped Belgian life. By exploring these themes, the museum shows how everyday actions and decisions influence how borders are formed and change over time.

Visit Details

When:

Wednesday, April 9 at 03:00 pm

Where:

Place des Palais, 7

Source: Shutterstock

Scavenger Hunt

About

We will discover Brussels in a fun and interactive way with a thrilling scavenger hunt through the city center! This activity will take you through historic squares, hidden alleys, and iconic landmarks as you complete challenges and uncover fascinating stories about the capital of Europe, so you can experience the city's rich history and vibrant culture in a unique and engaging way. Complete as many tasks as possible and take pictures as proof!

Activity Details

When:

Monday, April 7 after 05:30 pm

Where:

Start at the European quarter and finish at city center

Relevance

Brussels' city center presents a rich interplay of art and architecture that actively engages with the theme of borderscapes—the ways in which cultural expressions and urban landscapes expose, challenge, or blur the boundaries that define shared spaces. The city's graffiti, murals, and historical buildings function as layers of meaning, revealing tensions between the past and present, authority and rebellion, preservation and transformation.