The Palace of Laeken is one of the currently functioning residences of the royal family. This is the home of the King of Belgium, Philippe, his wife Mathilde, and four children. So, the inner part of the palace is not available for visitors.

This majestic building, which was constructed at the end of the 18th century in the strict classic style, is located in the north of Brussels in the district of Laeken. Nearby, there are such tourist-popular objects as the giant Atomium, which was built for an architectural exhibition of 1958, and a miraculous park of miniatures named Mini-Europe where it is very pleasant to walk, peering into copies of the most popular attractions.

The two-story building is adorned with monumental columns, sculptures, and a big dome, which is crowned with the Belgium flag. The project of the palace was created by a French architect, Charles de Wailly, by the order of Albert Casimir of Saxony. During its rich history, the building has passed through many events. It served as a residence for kings of different countries – first, of the Netherlands, then of Belgium. Then for a long time, it was abandoned and even was owned by Napoleon’s wife Josephine.

After the death of Belgian King Leopold I, the royal palace was passed on to his son – Leopold II, who actively started to refine it. During his reign, the building was enlarged and rebuilt in the style of classicism – thanks to this it got its modern look.

The heir was a lover of rare and exotic plants. During his reign, the territory of the park around the palace was significantly enlarged and refined, planted with beautiful trees and flowers. At the same time, the famous park greenhouses of Laeken with a splendid collection of plants appeared on the territory of the palace.

Once a week tourists can visit the Neo-Gothic Church of the Blessed Virgin which is also the tomb of the crowned heads. On a huge territory of the royal properties, among chestnuts and magnolias, you can find a Chinese pavilion and a Japanese tower-pagoda. Both constructions were ordered to be built by Leopold II, who was inspired by the World’s Industrial Exhibition of 1890 in Paris. This place stores a unique collection of Chinese porcelain and hosts temporary exhibitions. Laeken Park and Eastern pavilions are opened every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and the greenhouse is opened from Tuesday to Thursday, from 9.30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.