Palais de Justice

Overview

The Palais de Justice (Law Courts of Brussels) is one of the largest courthouses ever built — 26,000 m² of floor space, bigger than St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Its eclectic Neoclassical-Assyrian design dominates the Brussels skyline.

Highlights

• Grand Hall: The enormous central hall (104 metres long, 97 metres high) is breathtaking.
• Panoramic Views: The terrace in front offers sweeping views over the Marolles and lower town.
• Poelaert's Folly: The building's enormous scale earned its architect the nickname 'Architect of Madness.'

History

Designed by Joseph Poelaert, constructed 1866–1883. The building covers an entire hilltop and required the demolition of hundreds of homes in the Marolles neighbourhood.

Visitor Tips

• Under Renovation: Parts of the exterior have been scaffolded since 1984.
• Interior Access: Enter during court hours on weekdays.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.