Palace of the Nation

The Palace of the Nation is a parliament building in central Brussels designed with a classical style featuring straight lines, tall columns, and an ornately decorated facade. Inside are two large chambers with historical ornaments where representatives and senators hold their sessions.

Construction took place between 1778 and 1783 during Austrian rule, when it first served as the seat of the Council of Brabant. After Belgium gained independence in 1830, the building was transformed to become the seat of the Federal Parliament.

This is where Belgian representatives and senators gather to discuss and vote on laws that affect the whole country. The two main chambers inside carry historical decorations that reflect how important this building is to the nation.

The building stands near Brussels-Central railway station with metro stations Parc and Arts-Loi nearby for convenient public transportation access. Be aware that visits inside may be limited on days when parliament is in session.

Beneath the building and the adjacent park runs a tunnel system connected to a 1930s bunker that was built for strategic governmental purposes. This underground network remains inaccessible to visitors today.

Location: City of Brussels

Architects: Gilles-Barnabé Guimard

Architectural style: neoclassicism

GPS coordinates: 50.84667,4.36472

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:07