The Royal Family of Belgium is one of the oldest crowned families in Europe. But where do people rest during breaks from their duties? You will be interested to know what kind of real estate the Belgian royal family owns. We will help you sort out this issue.
[lwptoc]Residence Laeken and Royal Palace in Brussels
King Philip’s main place of work is the Royal Palace in Brussels. However, Queen Matilda and their children – Elisabeth, Gabriel, Emmanuel and Eleanor – reside at Laeken Castle. This residence was transferred to the Belgian state in 1900 by King Leopold II. He had no male heirs, but wanted to keep the royal properties in state ownership. To ensure this, he established the Royal Trust in 1930, an independent organization responsible for the management of the Belgian royal estates.
Laeken Castle is a relatively small architectural complex located in a secluded location. Unlike the royal palace, tourists are not allowed to enter here. Official meetings and receptions are rarely held at the castle.
L’Ile d’Yeu: Shelter on an island
The island of Ile d’Yeu, off the coast of France, is a favorite holiday destination for the royal family, according to journalist Pierre Devuyste. The reason is privacy, the opportunity to spend time without annoying paparazzi. In this royal estate of Belgium they spend time almost without staff, practicing water sports – windsurfing and kitesurfing.
This island was King Philip’s favorite vacation spot since childhood. He spent a lot of time with his father. Every year the royal family goes on holiday after Belgium’s National Day (21 July). Returns to his duties in mid-September.
Siergnon Castle: traditional hunting site
The head of state spends the long weekend at the Ciergnon Castle in Namur. It was acquired by Leopold I and reconstructed by his son Leopold II. The result was an exquisite estate with forests and hunting grounds. The young King Philip was fond of hunting.
An interesting fact is that all his children were baptized in the castle chapel. This property of the Belgian royal family is one of the favorite places for outdoor recreation. There are stables, kennels, and a small zoo.
Le Romarin: Villa in the southern region of France
Former King and Queen Albert and Paola own Villa Le Romarin. It is located in Chateauneuf -Grace, close to Cannes. The estate was acquired in the 1980s. Consists of three buildings, large agricultural land, there is a swimming pool. The place is popular with young crowned heads.
Overseas real estate
About the foreign real estate of the Belgian royal family.
Locals call it a small village. The family often gathers here to celebrate important events. An example is the recent 75th wedding anniversary of Albert and Paola. The celebration was modest, only people close to the royal family were invited.
Royal properties abroad
In addition to the French villa, the royal family also owns property in Rome. This is the legacy of Paola, who is Italian by origin. During the winter months they often travel to Italy. Sister of King Philip. Princess Astrid allegedly owns a chalet at one of the ski resorts. The location of the latter is kept secret. Philip’s brother, Prince Laurent, prefers to relax on the Italian island of Stromboli.
