Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, Art Nouveau greenhouse complex in Laeken, Belgium.
The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken form an extensive glass and metal complex with monumental pavilions, domes, and covered arcades spreading across the royal estate. Multiple structures connect through passages that link different plant halls together throughout the grounds.
Alphonse Balat designed and constructed the greenhouse complex between 1874 and 1905 for King Leopold II. The building used innovative techniques in glass and metal construction that shaped architectural practices of its time.
The winter garden serves as the heart of royal gatherings, with tall palms that have grown there since the complex first opened. These plants are woven into the daily life of the royal household and define how the space feels today.
The greenhouse complex opens to visitors for just three weeks during spring. Allow plenty of time to walk through the different connected rooms and observe the tropical plants at a leisurely pace.
The site holds specimens from King Leopold II's original plant collection, including medinillas displayed in Chinese vases from his travels to Asia. These objects reveal the king's personal tastes and his connection to distant lands.
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