The Atomium was built for the World's Fair in Brussels in 1958. Designed by the architect André Waterkeyn, it was originally meant to last only 6 months.
The monument has a total height of 103 meters. The spheres, which have a diameter of 18 meters, are connected by escalators. Three of the upper spheres have no vertical support, and so for safety reasons are not open to the public. In the top sphere one can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Brussels through the windows, and in the other spheres there are several exhibitions.
Much-needed renovation work was scheduled to start in 2003.