Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace is a neoclassical building with five floors situated on Place des Palais in central Brussels. White marble staircases, stone columns, and spacious reception halls fill the interior and showcase 19th-century craftsmanship.

Construction started in 1826 on Coudenberg hill and replaced an older palace complex from the 11th century that burned in 1731. The new structure was designed as a symbol of Belgian independence, which had recently been declared.

The palace functions as the official workplace where the Belgian monarch conducts state business and receives dignitaries. Visitors can experience the grandeur of the formal rooms that reflect the country's political importance.

The building is open to visitors during specific months, so check ahead to see which rooms are accessible on your visit. Comfortable shoes are advisable since you will walk through multiple staircases and lengthy corridors.

The Mirror Room features a ceiling artwork made from jewel beetle shells, a refined technique that plays with light and color in unexpected ways. The nearby Goya Room displays tapestries based on designs by the Spanish artist, placing his work in a royal context.

Location: City of Brussels

Inception: 1826

Architects: Ghislain-Joseph Henry, Charles Vander Straeten, Tilman-François Suys, Alphonse Balat, Henri Maquet, Octave Flanneau

Official opening: 1934

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture, baroque revival, Beaux-Arts

Floors above the ground: 5

Website: http://monarchie.be/palace-and-heritage/palace-brussels

GPS coordinates: 50.84167,4.36222

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:23