The secrets of one of Europe’s favourite and most hospitable palaces are set to be revealed to the public after laying buried for nearly three centuries.
When the “cold hill” went up in flames
Although its name translates to a rather unwelcoming “Cold Hill”, the Coudenberg Palace was, for medieval nobles, a popular hangout at the heart of Brussels, away from the royal seat in nearby Leuven. And it wasn’t that cold either on one fateful night in 1731 when a hapless jammaker caused an inferno that burned the place to the ground overnight. In the ground is where the vestiges remained until, 40 years later, they were paved and built over when the Place Royale was created.
But led largely by Belgian archivist and historian Alphonse Wauters, a resurgence of interest in the ruins of Coudenberg during the 20th century is now culminating in a fantastic opportunity. The ruined palace is set to “open its doors” again.
Hidden vaults and chambers
“This tour offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience the story of the rediscovery of the lost palace,” said Annelies Stalpaert, Coudenberg Palace communications manager. Taking visitors underneath the now-iconic classicist Place Royale, a discovery tour of the “hidden city” ventures into vaulted tunnels, passages and chambers once frequented by the likes of Charles V and other renowned and notorious characters. It will include 3D reconstructions of the palace, photos and old news reports on the excavation work that took place from the 1980s onwards.
Practical details
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own phones and headsets to access the archival material and tour information comfortably. Free Wifi means you can keep in touch with the outside world or even live stream your tour. The cost of the underground visit and audiotrail, which lasts one to two hours, is currently included in Brussels’ museum district’s Belvue Museum entry. It ranges from totally free on Wednesday afternoons and the first Sunday of the month, to 18 euros. Ticket availability is limited and visitors must choose a time slot.
Adult holders of a Museumpass or Brussels Card do not need to buy a ticket except for specific activities such as rooftop tours. Those who choose to make the trip by train can combine their museum entry with an “NMBS-SNCB” discounted train ride. “Happy Visit” tickets for the BELvue and/or the Coudenberg exist for early evening entries between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, giving you a 50% discount.
