Mirror Room

Overview

Step into the opulent Royal Palace of Brussels, the administrative heart of the Belgian monarchy, and discover one of its most mesmerizing chambers: the Mirror Room, or 'Salle des Glaces'. This grand hall, measuring twenty-six and a half meters long by eleven meters wide, is a testament to both historical grandeur and striking contemporary art. It is not just a visual spectacle; it also serves as a significant venue where the King receives ambassadors and hosts state events. While the Royal Palace itself is the King's primary workplace and not his residence, it generously opens its doors to the public for free during the summer months, offering a unique opportunity to witness this remarkable space firsthand.

History & Cultural Background

The origins of the Mirror Room trace back to King Leopold II's ambitious plans for the Royal Palace at the turn of the 20th century. In 1904, three smaller salons were unified to create this imposing hall, part of a larger renovation project to give the palace a new façade. Initially, Leopold II envisioned the room's walls and ceiling adorned with allegorical scenes that would celebrate the Belgian Congo, reflecting the colonial aspirations of the time. The walls were already decorated with rich marble and copper. However, his successor, King Albert I, chose a different path, opting to install elegant mirrors on the walls instead of the planned colonial frescoes, a decision that transformed the room's aesthetic direction. This historical shift underscores Belgium's evolving narrative and the changing perceptions of its past.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Mirror Room apart today is its breathtaking contemporary artwork, 'Heaven of Delight,' created by renowned Belgian artist Jan Fabre. In 2002, at the behest of Queen Paola, Fabre was commissioned to reimagine the room's ceiling. His audacious vision involved meticulously covering the entire ceiling and one of the three chandeliers with the iridescent green wing cases, known as elytra, of nearly 1.4 to 1.6 million Thai jewel beetles. The result is a shimmering, almost otherworldly canopy that radiates with a dynamic, living light, captivating all who gaze upon it. This magnificent installation transformed the historical space into a dialogue between past and present, blending royal heritage with bold contemporary expression.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The 'Heaven of Delight' installation is more than just a beautiful piece; it carries layers of intriguing meaning and subtle commentary. It's rumored that Fabre's work subtly addresses Belgium's colonial history, with some interpretations suggesting motifs within the beetle wings symbolize the brutality experienced by the Congolese under Leopold II's reign. This makes the room not only a visual marvel but also a thought-provoking historical statement. Interestingly, the ceiling under King Albert I was initially only temporarily covered with a layer of color bearing his monogram before Fabre's artistic intervention. The Mirror Room continues its royal duties by hosting significant diplomatic events, welcoming newly accredited ambassadors to the Belgian court, making it a living part of the country's official life.

Visitor Perspective

For a curious traveler, a visit to the Mirror Room offers an unforgettable experience. Entering this grand hall, you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of regal splendor, punctuated by the dazzling, almost hypnotic sparkle of the beetle wing ceiling. The sheer scale and intricate detail of 'Heaven of Delight' compel a moment of quiet contemplation, allowing you to absorb the interplay of history, art, and light. Observing the reflections of the beetle-adorned ceiling in the numerous wall mirrors creates an immersive, kaleidoscopic effect. As the Royal Palace opens its doors annually from late July to early September, typically from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, a visit to the Mirror Room is a highlight of this free public access. It's a chance to connect with Belgium's royal heritage and witness a truly unique artistic achievement that transcends conventional palace decor.