Royal Palace of Brussels
Bruxelles-Capitale: Région de
The Royal Palace of Brussels serves as the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians, located centrally in Brussels but not used as a royal residence. Instead, it functions as the administrative and ceremonial hub where the King exercises his duties as Head of State, holds audiences, and manages state affairs. The palace houses offices for the King, Queen, and key royal officials, as well as magnificent State Rooms used for large receptions and apartments for visiting foreign heads of state. Its origins trace back to the late 18th century, built on the grounds of the medieval Palace of Coudenberg, which was largely destroyed by fire in 1731. The current façade was constructed after 1900 under King Leopold II's initiative. Architecturally, the palace features grand halls such as the impressive Erevestibule with its marble staircases and gilded decorations, and the Empire Room, part of the oldest sections. Situated opposite Brussels Park and accessible via major metro and train stations, the palace symbolizes Belgium's constitutional monarchy and royal heritage. Visitors can appreciate its elegant salons, historical artworks including portraits by George Dawe, and the ceremonial ambiance that reflects Belgium's monarchy and history.
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Tip: The Royal Palace is traditionally open to the public during the summer months following Belgium's National Day on July 21 until early September. Visitors are advised to check official announcements for opening dates, especially as renovations may affect access. Tickets should be obtained in advance when available to avoid waiting times. The palace is easily accessible via Brussels-Central railway station and metro stations Parc/Park and Trône/Troon. Guided tours or virtual tours are recommended to fully appreciate the palace's rich history and state rooms.
Interesting facts
- •The Royal Palace stands on the site of the medieval Palace of Coudenberg, which was the seat of the Dukes of Brabant.
- •The Aula Magna in the old palace hosted the first regular meetings of the States General in 1465.
- •Charles V abdicated in the Aula Magna of the Coudenberg Palace in 1555 in favor of his son Philip II.
- •A large fire in 1731 destroyed most of the original palace, leading to its replacement by the current Royal Palace.
- •The palace's current façade was built after 1900 under King Leopold II's direction.
- •The palace includes apartments used to host foreign heads of state during official visits.
History
The site of the Royal Palace was originally occupied by the medieval Palace of Coudenberg, built between the 11th and 12th centuries as a fortified castle and residence of the Dukes of Brabant.
Over centuries, it was expanded and enhanced by Burgundian and Habsburg rulers, hosting significant events such as Charles V's abdication in 1555.
A devastating fire in 1731 destroyed most of the palace, leaving only the chapel and Aula Magna walls.
The ruins were cleared in the late 18th century during urban redevelopment that created Brussels Park and Place Royale.
The current Royal Palace was constructed on the site after 1900, with major renovations and expansions initiated by King Leopold II.
It now serves as the official workplace of the Belgian monarch, symbolizing the constitutional monarchy alongside the nearby Palace of the Nation, home to the Federal Parliament.
Place Guide
Erevestibule and Grand Staircaseearly 20th century
Designed by Alphonse Balat under King Leopold II, this grand entrance features bright walls, stone columns, a white marble staircase with green marble railings, gilded decorations, chandeliers, mirrors, and large windows creating a harmonious and majestic atmosphere.
Great Antechamberearly 19th century
Dating from the Dutch period (1815-1830), this room features a frieze depicting the political context of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands after the Battle of Waterloo. It houses pendant portraits of Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg (later King Leopold I) and Princess Charlotte of Wales painted by George Dawe.
Empire Roomearly 19th century or older
Part of the oldest section of the palace, the Empire Room showcases early architectural styles and is used for various official functions and receptions.
Contact
Phone: 02 551 20 20
