Atomium Brussels

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The Atomium in the Heysel Park in Brussels was constructed by architect André Waterkeyn for the 1958 World Fair in Brussels. It is a model of a crystalline metal molecule, magnified 150 billion times. It was intended to `symbollize faith in scientific progress and peaceful cooperation among nations´. The structure is 103 meters tall. The nine spheres representing the individual atoms are hollow, and measure 18 meters across. The connecting tubes are 3 meters wide. Vistors can travel around in the Atomium using escalators and strairways. The upper sphere offers a panoramic view of the city of Brussels, and the other spheres are often used for expositions. The structure was not intended to be permanent, but its popularity has motivated the Belgian government to find funds for its continual renewal and upkeep.