Palace of the Marquess of Assche

The Palace of the Marquess of Assche is a city residence in the Leopold Quarter featuring Renaissance Revival architecture that spans multiple floors with richly decorated exterior and interior surfaces. The building displays classical architectural elements and ornamental details characteristic of 19th-century noble dwellings.

The estate was commissioned in 1856 by nobleman Theodore van der Noot and designed by architect Alphonse Balat, with completion in 1858. Later it was converted to an administrative building and has served as headquarters for the Belgian Council of State since 1948.

The residence was modeled after Italian Renaissance designs and continues to shape the character of the Leopold Quarter with its elaborate facade elements. The rooms reflect the refined living standards of 19th-century Belgian nobility and their appreciation for ornate interior appointments.

The building stands at 33 Rue de la Science in central Brussels and now houses a government institution. Since it is not open to the public, visitors can mainly view the architecture from outside and appreciate the classical facade from the street.

The residence briefly housed Belgium's crown prince and princess before they ascended to the throne, representing an often overlooked chapter of its occupancy history. Those years between 1901 and 1909 connected Belgium's future monarchs to this Brussels address.

Location: City of Brussels

Inception: 1856

Architects: Alphonse Balat

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Part of: Ensemble d'hôtels de maître classiques

GPS coordinates: 50.84320,4.37242

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06