AnacondAsse Fountain – A Hidden Gem in Dilbeek, Flanders

Discover the artful twist of urbanisation, the soothing sound of water, and a quiet spot to pause in the heart of Belgium’s charming countryside.

1. Introduction

If you’re wandering through the rolling fields and cobbled streets of Dilbeek, a small town just a stone’s throw from Brussels, you might stumble upon a striking piece of public art that looks like it’s been pulled straight from a modern‑mythology book. The AnacondAsse fountain—named for its serpentine shape that resembles an anaconda coiling around a pillar—offers a surprisingly powerful visual metaphor for the slow but inevitable urbanisation of this once‑rural village. Erected in 2011 during the renovation of Zellik’s village centre, the fountain has quickly become a quiet landmark for locals, photographers, and curious travelers alike.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting AnacondAsse: its story, how to get there, the best times to soak in its atmosphere, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Brussels or a longer stay exploring Flanders, this fountain deserves a spot on your itinerary.

2. About AnacondAsse

A Symbolic Design

AnacAsse stands 4.4 meters tall and is composed of two main elements:

• The larger, twisting pipe – representing the “city,” it spirals upward in a fluid, almost organic motion.
• The smaller, vertical pillar – symbolising the “village,” it is held in a gentle choke‑hold by the larger pipe, reminiscent of an anaconda’s grip.

Together, they illustrate the relationship between urban growth and rural heritage—a theme that resonates throughout Dilbeek and the wider Flanders region.

History & Installation

The fountain was installed in 2011 as part of a broader revitalisation project for Zellik’s village centre. The renovation aimed to blend contemporary design with the historic fabric of the area, and AnacondAsse became the centerpiece of that vision. While there isn’t a dedicated Wikipedia page yet, the piece has been featured in local press and community newsletters as a testament to Dilbeek’s forward‑thinking cultural policy.

Why It Matters

• Cultural narrative – The sculpture captures a moment of transition, reminding visitors that even the most tranquil countryside is subject to change.
• Public art – AnacondAsse is a free, accessible work that encourages interaction; children love to run around its base while adults pause to contemplate the symbolism.
• Photographic appeal – The contrast between the sleek metal pipe and the natural surroundings creates striking visual compositions, especially at sunrise or sunset when the water catches the light.

3. How to Get There

By Car

• From Brussels: Take the E40 toward Ghent, exit at Zellik (Exit 9), and follow local signs to the village centre. Parking is available on the streets surrounding the fountain—just watch for residential permit zones.
• From Antwerp: Follow the E19 south, then switch to the E40 eastbound toward Brussels. Exit at Zellik and follow the same directions as above.

The drive from Brussels takes roughly 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Public Transport

• Train: Board a S‑train (S2 or S6) from Brussels Central to Zellik‑Zuid station (about a 15‑minute ride). The station is a short 10‑minute walk to the fountain; head east on Kerkstraat, then turn left onto Stationsstraat.
• Bus: Several De Lijn bus lines (e.g., 71, 73) stop at Zellik – Dorpsplein, a stone’s throw from the fountain. Check the latest timetable on the De Lijn website.

By Bike

Flanders boasts an extensive network of cycle paths. From Brussels, you can follow the R0 Ring Road cycle route to Zellik, then take the local bike lane to the village centre. The ride is flat and well‑signposted, making it a pleasant 30‑minute excursion.

Coordinates

If you prefer to plug the location directly into your GPS or mapping app, use: 50.885008, 4.273104.

4. Best Time to Visit

Overall, late spring to early autumn offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the site and its surroundings.

5. What to Expect

Arriving at AnacondAsse, you’ll first notice the gentle murmur of water flowing through the twisted pipe. The fountain’s design encourages a circular flow—water rises, spirals around the larger pipe, and then descends along the smaller pillar before re‑entering the basin. This rhythmic movement creates a soothing soundtrack that blends seamlessly with the village’s quiet streets.

Visual experience: The metallic surfaces catch the sun at different angles, producing shimmering highlights that change throughout the day. In the evening, the subtle illumination (if installed) casts a soft glow, highlighting the “anaconda” shape against the night sky.

Interaction: There’s no barrier around the fountain, so you’re free to walk up close, feel the cool mist, or sit on the surrounding stone benches. Families often let kids splash their feet, while photographers experiment with long‑exposure shots to capture the silky water trails.

Amenities: The immediate area is modest—there are a few benches, a small informational plaque (in Dutch), and nearby cafés in Zellik’s village centre where you can enjoy a coffee or a Belgian waffle after your visit.

6. Nearby Attractions

While AnacondAsse is a standout feature, the surrounding region offers several other points of interest within a short radius. All distances are as the crow flies, so a quick bike ride or walk will get you there.

Tip: Use a map app and search for “fountain Dilbeek” or “spring Dilbeek” to locate the unnamed spots. They’re all within a comfortable 10‑15 minute walk from AnacondAsse, making them perfect for a leisurely afternoon circuit.

7. Travel Tips

1. Check the fountain’s operating schedule – Some public fountains in Belgium are turned off during winter maintenance or extreme cold. A quick call to Dilbeek’s municipal office (or a glance at their website) can confirm if the water is flowing.
2. Bring a reusable water bottle – While the fountain’s water isn’t for drinking, staying hydrated is essential, especially in summer heat.
3. Capture the motion – For photography enthusiasts, a neutral density (ND) filter helps create smooth, silky water effects during daylight.
4. Combine with local cuisine – After your visit, head to Café De Zwarte Ruiter on Kerkstraat for a traditional Belgian sandwich and a local brew.
5. Bike-friendly routes – The Flemish Cycle Network (Fietsnetwerk) has signposted paths that loop through Dilbeek, Zellik, and neighboring villages. Rent a bike in Brussels for a day‑trip adventure.
6. Language note – Dutch is the primary language in Dilbeek, but most locals speak English and French. A few polite Dutch phrases (“Dank u wel,” “Alstublieft”) go a long way.
7. Respect the space – The fountain is a community landmark. Keep noise levels low, especially during early mornings, and avoid littering.

Final Thoughts

AnacondAsse may not appear on the typical “top 10 Belgium attractions” list, but that’s precisely what makes it special. It offers a quiet, reflective pause amid the bustle of nearby Brussels, a chance to contemplate how villages evolve, and a beautiful backdrop for memorable photos. Pair it with a stroll through Zellik’s charming centre, a sip of coffee at a local café, and perhaps a visit to the nearby star‑shaped fountain, and you’ve got a perfect half‑day itinerary that captures the authentic spirit of Flanders.

So pack your camera, hop on a bike, or catch the train—AnacondAsse is waiting to welcome you with its graceful coil and soothing splash. Happy travels!