1770–1783

The new royal district

After 40 years of equivocation, the political will and financial means finally came together for a large-scale architectural project. Plans for the current royal district were adopted and carried forward by Governor General Charles of Lorraine. The ruins of the old palace, as well as many surrounding buildings were razed and levelled to make space for place Royale, which was surrounded by neoclassical buildings that can still be seen today. The gardens were completely transformed into the parc de Bruxelles. However, some of the old buildings were preserved and used as cellars and foundations for the new buildings.