A Glimpse of History: The Chinese Pavilion in Laeken's Royal Gardens

Today, I'm sharing a photo taken during our visit to the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken in May last year. The image showcases the Chinese Pavilion in the Royal Gardens of Laeken. Built between 1901 and 1910 under the commission of King Leopold II, the pavilion reflects the fascination with exoticism and Orientalism prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. But the story of the Chinese Pavilion goes beyond its architecture and Europe's fascination with Asia at the beginning of the 20th century. During Leopold II's reign, Belgium was eager to expand its global influence, including in Asia. While Congo became the primary focus of Belgian colonial efforts, Leopold II's interest in Asia was unmistakable. Before acquiring the Congo Free State, he explored the idea of establishing Belgian colonies in various Asian territories, including China. It's important to remember that at the turn of the 19th century, China was highly desired by nations worldwide for its strategic and economic significance. Leopold II was among those captivated by China's potential, envisioning a colony similar to Congo in this vast and mysterious land. Today, the Chinese Pavilion serves as a reminder of King Leopold's colonial ambitions and enduring fascination with far-off lands – Laeken, Brussels, Belgium.