Brussels City Museum

The museum itself is a masterpiece of architecture — a grand monument of Gothic style situated opposite the Town Hall on the famous Grand Place.

The site has popular names such as the "Breadhouse" and "King's House". The first nickname comes from a bread market that operated here during the Middle Ages, and the second from a ruler's decision to build an administrative building in place of the market. Up until the late 19th century, this building housed government institutions, though it was never a royal residence.

The building's history began in the 15th century with a wooden house for bread stalls, which was rebuilt in stone in the 16th century. A significant reconstruction in the 19th century by architect Victor Jamar, inspired by the original Gothic features, gave the building its current appearance. This renovation was part of a broader effort to restore Grand Place after the square was severely damaged by French artillery in 1695.

The Brussels City Museum is always a sight to behold. Its architectural façade is adorned with Gothic stone lace, features pointed high windows, spires reaching into the sky, and green sculptures at the top.

The façade of the King's House is decorated with numerous statues representing historical and allegorical figures related to the history and culture of Brussels.

Inside, the building retains many historical elements, such as antique staircases, carved ceilings, and stained glass windows, creating the atmosphere of a genuine historical museum.

Like any city museum, the King's House provides an opportunity to witness the development of this locality. The main exhibits include sculptures, paintings, and religious artifacts, some of which date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. There are also items of everyday use made from tin, faience, and porcelain. Displayed are tapestries from the 16th to 18th centuries, and a small collection of altars.

There are two large dioramas, one depicting the early era of settlements that existed where Brussels is today, and the other showing city life in the 16th century. The painting collection largely focuses on city life and includes works by Bruegel, Rubens, and a substantial representation of early Flemish painting by Arta van den Boshe and the French artist Charles Ményer.