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Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: A Glass City of Floral Splendor

Explore a stunning glass city filled with rare plants and 19th-century architecture at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken in Brussels.

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The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, a stunning complex of glass and steel structures, are part of the Royal Palace of Laeken in Brussels. Built between 1874 and 1905 during the reign of King Leopold II, these greenhouses open to the public for a limited time each spring, showcasing a remarkable collection of exotic plants and breathtaking architecture.

A brief summary to Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Local tips

  • Tickets must be booked in advance online as they are not sold on site and sell out quickly.
  • The greenhouses are only open for approximately three weeks in the spring, so plan accordingly.
  • Consider visiting during the evening nocturnes for a different perspective, but note that only the shorter route is available then.
  • Wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the visit includes both indoor and outdoor experiences.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brussels-North station, take bus lines R30 or R31 (De Lijn) or bus line 53 (STIB-MIVB) to the 'Serres Royales / Koninklijke Serres' stop, which is a short walk from the entrance. A single fare typically costs around €2.50 - €3.00.

  • Walking

    From Bockstael train station, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to the Royal Greenhouses. Follow the signs or use a map app to guide you. No costs involved.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Brussels city center to the Royal Greenhouses will cost approximately €15-€25, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, located in the northern part of Brussels, are a monumental achievement of 19th-century architecture and a testament to King Leopold II's vision. Constructed between 1874 and 1905, the greenhouses were designed by Alphonse Balat, later assisted by Henri Maquet and Charles Girault, and represent a spectacular innovation in the use of glass and metal. The complex gives the appearance of a glass city nestled within a hilly landscape, comprising various pavilions, glass domes, and wide galleries. King Leopold II, inspired by the Crystal Palace in London, sought to create a similar progressive building that combined his passion for plants with spaces that could serve as banquet, theater, and dining halls. The greenhouses also served as a symbol of his colonial power, housing plants from around the world, including the Congo. The total floor surface of the heated complex is 2.5 hectares and is divided into 36 pavilions organized into three main zones. Highlights include the Winter Garden, the largest greenhouse with a 25-meter high glass dome, the Congo Greenhouse, and the Embarcadère Greenhouse, once used for royal receptions. The plant collection is invaluable, with some plants dating back to King Leopold II's time. Each spring, the greenhouses open to the public for about three weeks, allowing visitors to admire the architecture and rare plant species. Visitors can choose between a short (2 km) or long (3 km) route, with the longer route including a walk through the Royal Domain gardens.

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