Built as the centrepiece of Expo 58 in Brussels, the Atomium was never intended to become a permanent monument. However, it became so popular that it remained standing and grew into one of Belgium’s best-known landmarks.
After decades of exposure to the weather, the Atomium underwent a major renovation between 2004 and 2006. Its original aluminium covering was replaced with shiny stainless steel, while the interior and visitor facilities were also renewed. The restored Atomium reopened to the public on 18 February 2006. In 2026, Brussels celebrates the twentieth anniversary of this remarkable renovation, which gave the famous monument a new life.