Museums

Royal Palace

From 21 Jul 2014 to 06 Sep 2014

Each summer Belgium's Royal Palace opens its doors to the public, offering viewers an impressive array of otherwise inaccessible rooms.

Among the highlights are the Throne Room with its 11 chandeliers; the Goya Room with tapestries based on paintings by the Spanish court painter; and the oak-panelled Mirror Room with four enormous ceiling-high mirrors set between marble columns.

As well as being home to the offices of King Philippe, the palace is frequently used for state receptions, court audiences and royal audiences.

Situated on the Place des Palais, it faces the Belgian parliament across the Park of Brussels, which witnessed fierce combat in 1830 when the country's independence was gained. There has been a royal presence on the hill since the 12th century; in 1731 the palace was burnt to the ground before later being rebuilt in a neo-classical style.

Free admission. Tues-Sun 10.30-16.30