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Palace of Justice: Brussels' Colossal Courthouse

Discover Brussels' imposing Palace of Justice: a symbol of Belgian judicial power with stunning architecture and panoramic city views.

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The Palace of Justice in Brussels, a massive 19th-century courthouse, dominates the city skyline. Designed by Joseph Poelaert, its eclectic Greco-Roman style and sheer size make it a notable landmark. Housing important Belgian courts, it's open to the public and offers stunning city views from Poelaert Square.

A brief summary to Palace of Justice

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Palace of Justice during weekdays (Monday to Friday) as it is closed on weekends.
  • Take the Poelaert Elevators from the lower part of town for easy access to the Palace of Justice.
  • Enjoy the panoramic views of Brussels from the terrace behind the Palace of Justice.
  • Explore the nearby Sablon neighborhood, known for its antique shops and the Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Palace of Justice is easily accessible by public transport. Take metro lines 2 or 6 to Louise/Louiza station, which is a short walk from the palace. Tram lines 8 and 92 also stop at Poelaert, adjacent to the Palace. A single journey ticket costs €2.30. Alternatively, contactless payment with a bank card is available for €2.30.

  • Walking

    The Palace of Justice is approximately a 15-20 minute walk from Brussels Central Station. From the lower part of town, you can take the public Poelaert Elevators up to Place Poelaert. Be prepared for a climb, as the Palace is located on a high plateau.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Brussels. A taxi ride from Brussels Central Station to the Palace of Justice would typically cost between €11 and €21, depending on traffic and the specific taxi service. Taxi fares generally start at a minimum of €8.00, with additional charges per kilometer and per minute.

  • Driving

    Parking around the Palace of Justice can be challenging due to limited spaces and traffic restrictions. Paid on-street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find a spot. Several parking garages are located nearby, including Q-Park Poelaert and Halle Gate and Justice Palace Parking. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €3.60 for an hour.

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Discover more about Palace of Justice

The Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice/Justitiepaleis) in Brussels is a colossal courthouse and a prominent landmark in the city. Built between 1866 and 1883, it stands as one of the largest courthouses in the world, symbolizing Belgium's judicial authority. Designed by architect Joseph Poelaert, the building showcases an eclectic style with Greco-Roman influences. The Palace of Justice is more than just a courthouse; it's a testament to 19th-century eclecticism. Its architecture incorporates Neo-Baroque elements alongside classical and ancient Near Eastern details. Statues of great orators and lawmakers like Demosthenes, Lycurgus, Cicero, and Ulpian adorn the central portico. The building's vastness necessitated eight courtyards to provide natural light and air. The Salle des Pas Perdus, or Hall of Lost Footsteps, located under the dome, is a central feature known for its monumentality. Visitors can explore the building's interior, including the grand main hall and the courtrooms. From the terrace behind the building, panoramic views of Brussels unfold, showcasing landmarks like the Atomium. Though renovation has been ongoing since 1984, the Palace of Justice remains a significant architectural and historical site in Brussels. Its location on Place Poelaert offers some of the best views of the city.

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