The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, located on the outskirts of the Belgian capital, Brussels, are one of the most remarkable monuments of the city. However, these greenhouses are only open to the public for a short period each year.
Designed by Balat, a master architect of the renowned Victor Horta, the greenhouses are a magical place that combines elegant 19th century architecture with a wide variety of flora, including some very rare species. This greenhouse complex was commissioned by Leopold II of Belgium to house his extensive collection of plants brought from the Congo. The construction of the greenhouses was carried out from 1874 to 1895.
The complex covers a total of 2.5 hectares of land, and its most distinctive feature is the beautiful dome that juts out from the complex. The largest greenhouse is 60 meters long and 30 meters high. During most of the year, only the outside of the greenhouses can be visited. However, for a couple of weeks a year, when the indoor flowers and plants are at their best, access to the interior is allowed.
The interior of these greenhouses is cared for by 20 expert gardeners throughout the year, preparing for this special moment of opening to the public. It is recommended to visit the greenhouses in the afternoon, when the sunlight falls softly on them.
DISTANCE
4.5 km return
ESTIMATED TIME
1 hour
Schedule
Open once a year
DIFFICULTY
Easy
