On the occasion of the prestigious EXPO 2020, hub.brussels and Brussels International will accompany, from 31st January to 4th February, a delegation of a hundred Brussels companies and cultural partners led by the Secretary of State Pascal Smet to Dubai in order to build Brussels’ reputation overseas and create business opportunities.
The Belgian Pavilion will welcome prestigious actors from the Brussels cultural scene to showcase the richness and creativity of Brussels culture such as the famous Brussels grand scale traditional and historical event, The Ommegang will exceptionally move to Dubai.
1549: Those in power at the time in Brussels decided to show off the wealth and glory of their city by organising an Ommegang in honour of Charles V who then dominated Europe and the Americas. The word “Ommegang” (which means ‘walking round’ or ‘procession’) hearkens back to the deep religious devotions of the 14th century and to the miracle of Notre-Dame of the Sablon. For this one special occasion, municipal bodies, guilds and patrician Brussels, as well as the nobility from surrounding regions and the high clergy passed in solemn procession with the pomp and circumstance that clearly announced their status and privileges, while at the same time honouring the greatness of the emperor.
In modern times the Ommegang is structured, in broad terms, as a historical re-enactment respecting historical details, but also including an amazing, spectacular fantasy of light and sound using digital technology. There is a royal court made up of descendants of those illustrious families who were in attendance in the 16th century. To these courtiers is presented a veritable pageant of folkloric groups, knights, flags, stilt-walkers, marionettes, giants, and parade floats…
With seating for thousands of spectators, today’s public can immerse itself directly in the enthusiasm, excitement, and splendour of this grand-scale historical event.
