Every year, in the spring, the greenhouses are open to the public for a few weeks. This tradition, which is over a century old, is still respected.
The greenhouses are an expression of a grand construction program, that of the ideal glass palace. They are the culmination of numerous exchanges between the architect Alphonse Balat and King Leopold II, and have inspired Belgian architecture of the time, as well as Art Nouveau architecture around the world.
The current plant collection has a triple exceptional value: it still contains some plants from the original plantations of King Leopold II, the current plantations still respond to the spirit of the original plantations, and the greenhouses contain many rare and valuable plants.
The Serre de l'Embarcadère was built in 1886-1887 to receive guests when the King received in the Winter Garden or the Dining Room Greenhouse. It features an staircase leading to the Winter Garden, and two statues by Charles Van der Stappen, L'Aurore and Le Soir, at its extremities.
Visitors can expect to see a stunning collection of plants, including medinillas (tropical plants from the Philippines) displayed in Chinese vases brought back by King Leopold II from a trip to the Far East. The greenhouses offer a unique and breathtaking experience.
2024 / forbrusselslovers.com
