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Castle of Laeken

Castle of Laeken
About

Nestled within the Royal Domain in northern Brussels, the Castle of Laeken is the official residence of the Belgian royal family. Originally built between 1782 and 1784 as the Palace of Schonenberg for the Austrian governors of the Habsburg Netherlands, the neoclassical estate has witnessed centuries of European history. After surviving the French Revolution and a devastating fire in 1890, it was rebuilt and expanded under King Leopold II, who also commissioned the iconic Royal Greenhouses—an architectural marvel still admired today. Though not open to the public, the castle remains a working royal residence and a symbol of Belgium’s monarchy. Its vast parkland, dotted with sculptures and historic pavilions, reflects the grandeur of a bygone era. Each spring, the Royal Greenhouses briefly open their doors, offering a rare glimpse into this secluded world. The Castle of Laeken stands as a living monument to royal tradition, architectural evolution, and the enduring legacy of Belgium’s sovereign past.

Brussels Belgium
Location

The Castle of Laeken, also known as the Royal Castle of Laeken, is located in the Laeken district in the north of Brussels, at Avenue du Parc Royal, 1020 Laeken. Serving as the official residence of the Belgian royal family since 1831, the castle is set within the expansive Royal Domain of Laeken, a lush parkland that covers over 180 hectares and features beautifully landscaped gardens and serene ponds. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds offer visitors a chance to admire the elegant exterior and enjoy the tranquil green spaces. Nearby, the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a major highlight, renowned for their stunning Art Nouveau glass architecture and rare botanical collections, open to the public during select weeks each spring. The area also boasts the Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion, part of the Museums of the Far East, as well as the peaceful Parc de Laeken and the Church of Our Lady of Laeken, where members of the royal family are buried. Iconic Brussels attractions such as the Atomium, Mini-Europe, and Train World are within easy reach, making the Castle of Laeken an appealing stop for those exploring the city’s royal heritage and northern districts.

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