The VIII European Forum on Historic Gardens
Set against the enchanting backdrop of the Van Buuren Museum & Gardens in Brussels, the 8th edition of the prestigious European Forum on Historic Gardens offers a unique opportunity for knowledge exchange, professional dialogue, and international collaboration. Over 50 experts from across Europe will share insights, experience, and their visions for the future of historic gardens.
This May, Brussels will become Europe’s hub for discussions on the protection and future of historic gardens. Held under the theme “Europe of United Gardens”, the Forum will welcome over 50 professionals from more than 12 countries, making it a key event for anyone involved in cultural landscape heritage.
The Forum takes place in one of Brussels’ most exceptional venues – the Van Buuren Museum and Gardens. Built in 1928 by David and Alice Van Buuren, this Art Deco gem combines art, architecture, and horticulture in a singular, harmonious design. The residence houses an art collection spanning the 15th to 20th centuries, while the gardens – developed between 1924 and 1968 – are officially recognised as a heritage site by the Brussels-Capital Region.
The two-day programme reflects the values of the European Route of Historic Gardens: preservation, dialogue, and innovation. The first day features a keynote conference under the title “Historic Gardens as a Shelter for Europe’s Wandering Landscape”, with expert talks on European influences in the Van Buuren garden, the history of garden design, climate change, and plant selection. Later, a panel on sustainable garden commercialisation will include a presentation by Jacek Kuśmierski, vice chair of the Eduard Petzold Foundation, who will discuss garden tourism in Poland and its future outlook.