Liège-Guillemins Railway Station | Liege

The Liège-Guillemins Railway Station (Gare de Liège-Guillemins) is one of Belgium's most iconic and modern transportation hubs, located in Liège, the country's third-largest city. Known for its stunning architectural design, it serves as a key railway junction in the region and connects Liège to major cities in Belgium and across Europe. The station is renowned for its futuristic and artistic appearance, making it a must-see landmark for travelers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

History and Evolution

Early Beginnings: The original Liège-Guillemins station was inaugurated in 1842 and was one of the main railway stations in Belgium at the time. The station was named after the district of Guillemins, located to the west of the city center. It served as a key transportation hub, connecting Liège to other Belgian cities and beyond.

Reconstruction: The station underwent a significant transformation with the construction of a new, modern terminal, which was officially opened in 2009. This new station was designed to accommodate increased passenger traffic, improve regional and international connectivity, and serve as a symbol of Liège’s ambition to modernize its infrastructure and revitalize its city center.

Renovation and Upgrading: The previous station, which was built in the mid-20th century, was in need of modernization and expansion. The decision was made to rebuild the station from scratch, with the new structure being more spacious, efficient, and visually striking.

Architectural Design

Santiago Calatrava’s Masterpiece: The new station was designed by the world-renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who is famous for his innovative and futuristic designs. The station's architecture is characterized by its sleek lines, curved surfaces, and extensive use of glass and steel, making it one of the most stunning railway stations in the world.

Main Features:

• The station is famous for its central hall, which is framed by an enormous, sweeping roof made of steel and glass. This distinctive roof structure resembles the wings of a bird in flight or the ribs of a gigantic skeleton, giving the station an ethereal, almost otherworldly appearance.
• The roof spans a width of 200 meters (656 feet) and rises up to 32 meters (105 feet) above the platform. Its translucent surface allows natural light to flood the interior of the station, creating a bright and airy environment for passengers.
• The use of white concrete and polished surfaces enhances the futuristic aesthetic of the station, which feels more like a transportation cathedral than a traditional train terminal.
• The design also incorporates a series of escalators, staircases, and underground passages to ensure smooth and efficient flow of passengers.

The Canopy: The station’s canopy is another remarkable architectural feature. The canopy’s sweeping design is supported by slender white columns, which give it a light and delicate appearance. The roof’s undulating form creates a sense of movement, and its shape has been compared to the wings of an airplane or the crest of a wave. The canopy provides shelter for passengers waiting on the platforms and gives the station its unique, recognizable silhouette.

Lighting and Ambiance: The station is designed to maximize natural light during the day, and at night, the lighting system transforms the station’s roof and structure into a luminous spectacle. The lights highlight the architectural contours, making it a striking visual landmark that can be seen from miles away.

Facilities and Services

Modern Amenities: The Liège-Guillemins Railway Station offers a range of modern amenities for passengers. It features:

• Ticket counters, self-service kiosks, and an information desk to assist travelers with tickets, schedules, and travel information.
• Shops, restaurants, and cafes where passengers can grab a meal or enjoy a drink while waiting for their trains.
• A large underground parking garage and a well-designed public transport interface for easy connections to buses, trams, and taxis.

High-Speed Rail Connections: Liège-Guillemins is an important node for high-speed rail travel. It offers direct connections to cities like Brussels, Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne via the Thalys and ICE high-speed trains. The station is part of the broader European high-speed rail network, making it a key point for international travel.

Local and Regional Connections: The station also serves local and regional routes, connecting Liège with towns and cities within Belgium, as well as offering easy connections to neighboring countries like Germany and Luxembourg.

Cultural and Symbolic Importance

City Revitalization: The Liège-Guillemins Railway Station is a key part of the city’s effort to modernize its infrastructure and rejuvenate the area surrounding the station. The station’s modern design is intended to symbolize the city’s ambition to embrace the future while honoring its historical heritage. It is part of a broader urban renewal project that includes new buildings, public spaces, and a revitalized transportation network.

Iconic Landmark: The station has become an iconic landmark not just for Liège but for Belgium as a whole. Its striking design and architectural innovation have made it a symbol of modernity and progress, drawing visitors from around the world. It is a popular destination for photographers, tourists, and architecture enthusiasts who come to admire its design and take in its impressive scale.

Cultural Significance: In addition to being a transportation hub, the station also hosts cultural events and exhibitions. Its modern design and open space make it an ideal venue for art installations and performances, contributing to Liège’s cultural life and enhancing the experience of both travelers and locals.

Location and Accessibility

Address: The Liège-Guillemins Railway Station is located in the Guillemins district of Liège, Belgium, at Place des Guillemins 3, 4000 Liège.

Accessibility: The station is easily accessible by train, bus, tram, and car, and it is located just a few kilometers from the city center. Its convenient location makes it an ideal point of entry for travelers coming to Liège from across Belgium or abroad.

Public Transport: Several public transport options are available at the station, including bus lines that connect the station to other parts of the city and the surrounding region. The Liège tram system also passes through the station, providing a quick and convenient way to reach key locations in the city.

Conclusion

The Liège-Guillemins Railway Station is more than just a transit hub—it is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, a symbol of Belgium's progress, and a key part of the country’s transportation infrastructure. Its striking design by Santiago Calatrava has made it one of the most celebrated railway stations in the world. Whether you are passing through on a train journey, admiring its architecture, or simply exploring Liège, the station offers a unique experience and is a must-see landmark in the city.