A. BALAT, 1856–1858
When the Leopold district developed into a prestigious, aristocratic neighborhood in the mid-19th century, Count Théodore van der Noot, Marquis of Assche and scion of one of the richest families in the country, jumped on the bandwagon. He had Alphonse Balat, the future court architect of Leopold II and mentor of Victor Horta, build an impressive city palace, clearly inspired by the Palazzo Farnese in Rome. In the early 20th century, the palace had even more famous residents as Crown Prince Albert and Princess Elisabeth lived there between 1901 and 1909, and Princes Leopold and Charles were born there. Later the palace served as the residence of American ambassadors. Since 1948, it has housed the Council of State. The architectural grandeur of the palace and the life of its residents are the main focus of the visit. Highlights include the former ballroom with its authentic chandelier, decorative mouldings and mirrors; the former dining room with two Mechelen tapestries from the Royal Manufacture De Wit; the office of the First President with ceiling paintings by Charles Chaplin; and Prince Albert’s library in Neo-Flemish Renaissance style. The visit will not go into detail about the workings of the Council of State; for that, a visit to the adjacent Lowenstein Mansion is more suitable.
Saturday 10 October 2026
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Language
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Times
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FR
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10h30 · 12h00 · 14h00 · 15h30
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NL
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10h00 · 13h30 · 16h30
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EN
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11h30 · 15h00
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Sunday 11 October 2026
|
Language
|
Times
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|---|---|
|
FR
|
10h00 · 11h30 · 15h00 · 16h30
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|
NL
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15h30
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EN
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10h30 · 14h00
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Practical information
Accessibility for people with reduced mobility
Transport
Rue de la science 33, 1040 Bruxelles
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