History of the Building
House of Hungary, Brussels
Facing the Parc de Bruxelles, in front of the Royal Palace of Brussels, and bordered by the Rue de la Loi and the Rue Ducale, the original plans for this corner building were drawn up in 1778 by B. Guimard and became reality three years later, after its purchase by Josse Massion, a distinguished architect and master builder. In the course of the 19th century, the building, first in the hands of a Duke of Windischgrätz, then of the Prince of Orange, and finally of the Blondel and Hendecourt families, which belonged to the upper classes, became the property of the Belgian State at the turn of the century, after several renovations. The main entrance of the house, which still contains details from the late 18th century, was moved to its present site after 1815, and the U-shaped form and size of the building was completed in 1870. The Belgian Ministry of Finance was also housed in this building. The Hungarian state bought the building in 2021. The complete renovation of the building was completed and opened as the House of Hungary in the summer of 2024.
A representative building that showcases the defining elements of Hungarian identity and national pride awaits its visitors with a spirit of modern sophistication. The interior design concept is inspired by the thematic rooms typical of urban mansions, such as a cigar room, blue salon, and library.
In keeping with its role as a diplomatic mission, certain ceremonial rooms in our building are dedicated to thematic displays that highlight Hungary’s position in Europe and the world, thereby strengthening our national image. On the ground floor, literature and painting are featured, while the first floor offers a selection from the finest of Hungarian music, folk art, and science. Our wine cellar presents an introduction to our rich wine culture.
This thematic approach allows us to draw from our historical past while offering a view into the values of our present. We draw inspiration from Hungary’s European-standard works in literature and painting, our musical heritage, unique folk art traditions, the achievements of our Nobel laureates, and the diversity of our wine culture, reflecting the richness of the Hungarian landscape.
House of Hungary Brussels – 1000 Brussels, Rue de la Loi 9. Belgium
Asset management and operator:
Brüsszeli Magyar Ház Nonprofit Kft. – 1013 Budapest, Ybl Miklós tér 6. Hungary