Beneath a neoclassical façade lies the Royal Palace of Brussels a place brimming with Belgian history. While it may not be the King’s primary residence it’s a crucial stage for royal duties. It hosts state visits and significant receptions. This is Palace 1.
The Royal Palace of Brussels has witnessed pivotal moments. Let’s take a brief journey through its past. Originally, this site was part of the Palace of Coudenberg, a medieval complex. The first structure emerged between the late 11th and early 12th centuries. Over time it evolved reflecting the growing importance of the Dukes of Brabant.
Did you know a fire in 1731 devastated the Palace of Coudenberg? Only the court chapel and parts of the Aula Magna survived. The area was redeveloped after 1775. Brussels Park and the Place Royale were created.
After the Congress of Vienna Brussels became a joint capital of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. King William I connected two mansions with a gallery creating a new Royal Palace. Architect Tilman-François Suys designed a neoclassical façade. The Place des Palais was created alongside the palace. Another palace was built to the left. It was designed as the residence of the Crown Prince. Today it’s called the Academy Palace.
Leopold II significantly enlarged the Royal Palace of Brussels during his reign. The palace nearly doubled in size. Imposing rooms were added including the Grand Staircase and Throne Room. The current façade was completed after 1904. It was designed by architect Henri Maquet.
Take a closer look at the Main Stairway and Vestibule. Alphonse Balat designed its majestic interior for King Leopold II. Notice the pale walls and the white marble staircase. The green marble ramp adds a touch of elegance.
In the Large Anti-chamber note the frieze depicting political history. This room dates back to the Dutch period. Look for portraits of Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg and Princess Charlotte of Wales. They were painted by George Dawe.
The Empire Room showcases the ballroom of the Austrian imperial representative. The gilding and low reliefs reflect the style of the late Ancien Regime. This room still hosts ceremonies. Ambassadors are received here when they present their credentials to the King.
Don’t miss the Small and Large White Rooms. These rooms, together with the Empire Room, formed the apartment of state of the Austrian Minister. The original 18th-century decorations have been preserved. The furniture was a wedding gift to Queen Louise-Marie.
The Venice Staircase was renovated in the late 19th century. Alphonse Balat oversaw the work. Admire the large oil paintings by Jean-Baptiste van Moer.
The Goya Room features tapestries woven in Madrid. They are based on drawings by Francisco de Goya. These tapestries were a gift to King Leopold I.
In the Coburg Room observe the portraits of King Leopold I and his family. These paintings offer a glimpse into the royal lineage.
The Louis XVI Room once served as an anti-chamber. It now displays portraits of Leopold I’s family and paintings from his collection.
The Pilaster Room was originally a waiting room. It became a dining room for dignitaries. The armchairs once belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte.
The Marshals’ Room was King William I’s audience room. It was refurbished in 2010 and displays works by Borremans.
The Throne Room was built during Leopold II’s reign. Low reliefs by Auguste Rodin depict the economic activities of the Belgian provinces.
The Marble Room owes its character to the green marble. Portraits of Godfrey of Bouillon and Charles V are displayed here. This room was once Leopold II’s dining room.
The Large Gallery hosts dinners and receptions. The ceiling paintings by Charles-Léon Cardon represent different times of day.
The Mirror Room evokes the Congo. Jan Fabre created “Heaven of Delight” here using jewel beetles. The room hosts events regularly.
The Thinker Room features a clock with a bronze reproduction of Michelangelo’s “The Thinker”. This space is used when a member of the Royal Family dies.
The Royal Palace of Brussels is open to the public during the summer. Take a guided tour to delve deeper into its history. Photography is allowed in certain areas. The palace is easily accessible by public transportation.
Today the Royal Palace of Brussels stands as more than just a building. It is a symbol of Belgium’s constitutional monarchy and a treasure trove of art and history. Its halls echo with the stories of kings queens and pivotal events. As you leave Palace 1 remember the rich history held within these walls.