Palace of Charles of Lorraine, 18th century palace in Royal Quarter, Belgium
The Palace of Charles of Lorraine is an 18th century residence in the Royal Quarter that displays classical architecture with U-shaped facades, projecting central sections, and pediments decorated with carved reliefs. The interior contains five reception halls fitted with elaborate marble fireplaces, gilded stucco work, and period furnishings.
This residence was built in 1757 on the former site of the Nassau Palace and served as the home of Charles Alexander of Lorraine, Governor of the Habsburg Netherlands. The construction took place during the Enlightenment, a period when this region held significant political and cultural importance.
The five reception halls feature marble fireplaces, gilded stucco work, and Belgian tapestries that reveal how the wealthy elite lived and presented themselves during the Austrian Netherlands period. These rooms show the artistic tastes that defined upper-class life in that era.
The palace is accessible only through guided tours that run for about an hour and are offered in multiple languages. The building has wheelchair access throughout, and visitors are permitted to take photographs during their visit.
The rotunda features a marble floor made from 28 different types of Belgian marble arranged in a rose pattern. This elaborate geometric design showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the period in a way that stands out from the rest of the interiors.
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