Place Royale

The Place Royale is of huge significance in Belgium as it was built on the former Palace of Coudenberg site, the place from which the country was ruled for some seven centuries. The old royal palace was built on the top of a hill, giving it a symbolically grand vantage point, meaning that the square still has a fantastic view over the city today. When the palace burned down in 1731, the decision was taken not to rebuild it but to preserve the significance of the site. The result is an open square lined with monuments of 19th-century architecture.

The square has retained a noble atmosphere, for the most part provided by the pastel hues of the buildings bordering it. The neoclassical style is reminiscent of a Venetian piazza. One of the most noteworthy buildings is the St Jacques-sur-Coudenberg church, an 18th-century structure with a wonderfully decorated bell tower. It was on the steps of this church that King Leopold I was crowned first King of Belgium in 1831. From the top of these steps a breathtaking view of Brussels unfolds. The interior of the church is far from disappointing and you might like to step inside to sit for a while in the beautifully ornate silence.

The centrepiece of the square is a statue of 11th-century crusader Godfrey of Bouillon. His role as the leader of the first crusade earned him the title First Ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Godfrey’s energy and courage have been frozen for eternity, depicted as he is on a bucking horse in the middle of Place Royale.

If you’re interested in learning more about the historical significance of the square and about Belgian history in general, there are some historical tours available around here. You can sign up for these at the tourist information centre not far from the square.

You’ll find the Place Royale in the heart of central Brussels. The best way to get here is by metro, although there is some paid parking on the streets nearby if you want to drive.