Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Masonic Temple of the Cercle des Amis Philanthropes in Brussels, a protected monument since 1975, faced vandalism after a viral TikTok falsely linked it to “satanic rituals.” The video’s creator was arrested and will appear in court in April 2025.
A Brussels landmark of historic significance, the Cercle des Amis Philanthropes’ Masonic Temple, is being targeted after a viral TikTok video associated it with “satanic rituals” and the “Illuminati.” The video circulated about the temple’s operations and soon became popular on the internet. The Cercle des Amis Philanthropes, an institution dedicated to philanthropy and community service, is now dealing with the fallout of these false accusations.
Did a viral TikTok Hoax trigger vandalism at Brussels’ Masonic Temple?
The occupants of the old building have said that they have been receiving threats and hate mail since the circulation of the video last month of January 2025. There have also been break-in attempts at the building, and the walls of the building have been pummeled with stones. Fearing for their safety, residents have filed complaints with local police.
The Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office issued a firm warning against sharing fake news online. The office said it is illegal to use social media to share disinformation that could endanger people or institutions.
According to officials, the woman who took the video was taken into custody and will go to court in April 2025 to face accusations of defamation, threatening writing, and improper use of an electronic communication device.
The Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office said,
“It is illegal to use social media to harm individuals or institutions by spreading information that is incorrect and could harm individuals or institutions.”
The Cercle des Amis Philanthropes Masonic Temple was inspired by the Egyptian Revival style. The temple, which was initially built in the late 18th century, was drastically renovated in 1877 with contributions from artists such as Alban Chambon and Gustave Janlet.
The large temple hall, “Amon-Râ,” is an Egyptian temple. In 1975, the temple was declared a protected monument. The temple has undergone various repair techniques to preserve its interior, including in 1932 and 2015.
