Royal Castle of Laeken, Royal residence in Laeken, Belgium
The Royal Castle of Laeken is a royal residence in Brussels designed in Neoclassical style, set on an expansive estate with a main building and two monumental wings. The grounds contain Royal Greenhouses displaying collections of exotic plants, sculptures, and Chinese decorative pieces that open to visitors during specific seasons.
Originally named Palace of Schönenberg, the structure was built between 1782 and 1784 by architect Charles de Wailly for the governors of the Habsburg Netherlands. After a fire in 1890, architect Alphonse Balat carried out major reconstruction that shaped the castle into its present form.
The castle serves as the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family and represents the nation's governance through state events and diplomatic receptions. Visitors can experience the formal gardens and greenhouses that reveal how royal life intertwines with nature and cultivation here.
The Royal Greenhouses open to visitors during spring months, showcasing exotic plant collections, artwork, and traditional Chinese decorative pieces. It is helpful to check opening times in advance since access varies depending on the season and royal activities.
The two monumental wings were added in 1902, showcasing mature Neoclassical style with refined proportions and decorative details. This expansion transformed the structure into the substantial complex that visitors encounter today.
Location: City of Brussels
Inception: 1782
Architects: Charles de Wailly, Louis Montoyer, Antoine Payen the Elder, Gilles-Lambert Godecharle, Alphonse Balat, Charles Girault
Official opening: 1784
Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture
Elevation above the sea: 54 m
GPS coordinates: 50.88639,4.35972
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:01
Brussels offers photographers a range of architectural subjects spanning several centuries. The medieval Grand-Place forms the historic center, while Art Nouveau buildings such as the Musée Horta and Maison Cauchie document the artistic flourishing around 1900. The Atomium, built for the 1958 World's Fair, represents postwar modernism and has become one of the city's most photographed landmarks. The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert ranks among Europe's oldest covered shopping arcades and displays the elegant construction techniques of the 19th century. The Mont des Arts connects different neighborhoods through a terraced garden with views over the old town. Parc du Cinquantenaire features neoclassical triumphal arches, while the Porte de Hal remains the last surviving medieval city gate. The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Koekelberg shows Art Deco influences in its monumental architecture. Quieter spots include the Étangs d'Ixelles, two ponds in the neighborhood of the same name, or the Forêt de Soignes, an extensive beech forest on the city's edge. Avenue Louise connects residential and commercial districts through various architectural styles. Smaller passages such as Galerie Bortier or Passage du Nord complement the major arcades. Rue des Bouchers is known for its restaurant facades, while Rue de la Cigogne features historic townhouses. Photographically interesting details include the Art Nouveau metro station Pannenhuis or the modernist Bâtiment CBR. The Château de Laeken serves as a royal residence and opens to visitors only during the annual opening of the Serres Royales. Le Botanique, a former botanical garden, now houses a cultural center. Place Royale and the adjacent Palais Royal form the political heart of the city. Smaller squares like Place Flagey offer local scenes away from the main routes.
Church of Our Lady of Laeken
908 m
Royal Greenhouses of Laeken
220 m
Belvédère Castle
671 m
Royal Crypt
854 m
Japanese Tower
740 m
Museums of the Far East
833 m
Laeken Churchyard
904 m
Laeken Park
1 km
American Theatre
1 km
Monument to the Dynasty
640 m
Florist Stuyvenberg Gardens
788 m
Benelux Fountain
1.2 km
Annie Cordy Park
997 m
Queen Astrid Memorial
616 m
Former Our Lady of Laeken
829 m
Sobieski Bridge
1.1 km
Sainte-Anne fountain
501 m
Neptune fountain
798 m
Jardin Colonial
1 km
21 July Square
674 m
Sobieski Park
998 m
Théâtre Royal les Cœurs de Bois
1 km
Former Laeken gendarmerie barracks
1.1 km
Chinese Pavilion
833 m
Sobieski Park and Colonial Garden of Laken
1 km
Garden of the Chinese Pavilion
856 m
Galeries funéraires du cimetière de Laeken
905 m
Park of the Sint-Annadreef
436 mReviews
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