Hôtel Ravenstein, Gothic townhouse in Royal Quarter, Belgium
The Hôtel Ravenstein is a late Gothic townhouse in Brussels built with brick and sandstone, featuring a central courtyard at its core. Its architecture displays typical features from the 15th and 16th centuries, with several preserved details that remain visible today.
This residence was built during the late Gothic period between the 15th and 16th centuries, when Burgundian dukes ruled Brussels. It stands as the last surviving noble house from that era, reflecting how powerful families lived in the city at that time.
This mansion once housed noble Belgian families, and its furnishings show how the wealthy lived during that era. The rooms with their historic furniture and decoration give visitors insight into daily life during Burgundian rule.
The building sits on Rue Ravenstein in central Brussels and is easy to reach from the street. Today it houses a restaurant and offices, so visitors can explore the spaces during regular business hours.
An old sundial remains visible on the exterior, something visitors often overlook when passing by. Such time-telling devices were common in wealthy homes and reveal the practical details of daily life back then.
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