Where does the name Keizerslaan come from? The Boulevard de l’Empereur Keizerslaan in Brussels holds a significant place in the city’s history. It’s more than just a street. It’s a living link to the past. This grand boulevard’s name speaks volumes. It hints at imperial grandeur. It whispers tales of a bygone era.
Long before the elegant buildings lined this thoroughfare a different scene unfolded. The area was once part of the Galgenberg hill. This was known in French as Mont aux potences. This translates as Gallows Hill. In the Middle Ages criminals were hanged here. Their final moments played out on this very ground. This somber history contrasts sharply with the current opulent atmosphere.
The Boulevard de l’Empereur Keizerslaan is intrinsically tied to the Palace of Justice. This is a monumental structure. It dominates the Brussels skyline. The Palace’s construction necessitated the demolition of a section of the Marolles neighborhood. This led to heated controversies. Many residents were forced to relocate. They were compensated but the resentment remained. The phrase schieven architect shameful architect became a common insult. This was directed towards the architect Joseph Poelaert. He designed the Palace. He lived nearby. The displacement of these residents remains a sensitive topic.
The Palace of Justice itself is a remarkable building. It replaced an older courthouse. The original building was in the Sablon district. It stood between Rue de l’Empereur and the now-disappeared Rue d’Or. The current Palace was constructed between 1866 and 1883. It’s reputed to be the largest building constructed in the 19th century. This vast structure boasts a ground surface of 26006 square meters. Its total cost reached a staggering 50 million Belgian francs. It underwent heavy damage during World War II. The cupola was destroyed and later rebuilt taller than its original. Renovations begun in 1984 continue to this day.
The Boulevard de l’Empereur Keizerslaan runs near the Palace. It stands as a testament to a city’s evolution. It showcases the juxtaposition of its historical past and the ambitious architectural projects that transformed the area. It speaks of the resilience of the people and the enduring impact of significant urban changes. The very street beneath our feet holds a rich history. A history waiting to be explored.