Orbán government buys palace in Brussels to begin culture war?

In a strategic move, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has secured a palace in Brussels, on Rue de la Loi. The Hungarian state recently purchased the former Belgian Ministry of Finance building.

Bringing Hungarian culture to the European Quarter

Politico recently highlighted Orbán Viktor’s endeavor to bring a “culture war” to Brussels by opening a palace on Rue de la Loi. This move can be seen as an attempt to infuse a touch of Hungarian culture and intimacy into the heart of the European Quarter. The building, now owned by the Hungarian state, is strategically positioned within a 10-15 minute walk of the main EU institutions. This location symbolises Hungary’s dedication to active participation in European affairs. According to Economx, the historic property is ready to serve as a pivotal hub for Hungary’s diplomatic and cultural initiatives within the EU.

Renovating a symbolic palace

The purchased property, located at 9 Rue de la Loi, holds immense prestige value. Olivier Carette, executive director of the Belgian Real Estate Association, expressed confidence in the Hungarian state’s advantageous acquisition. Moreover, he cited the building’s status as one of the “Triple A” or top-rated properties in Brussels. He anticipates a substantial increase in its value following the completion of a full renovation scheduled for June 2024.

Strategic real estate deal

Furthermore, the Hungarian state managed to secure this 2,165 m2 building for EUR 10 million in 2021, a price below its appraised value. Acquiring the EUR 10 million property on Rue de la Loi strategically aligns with Hungary’s plan. They aim to host flagship programs during their upcoming EU presidency in 2024. This move reflects Orbán’s determination to strengthen Hungary’s influence within the European Union.

Progress and challenges

Ambassador Tamás Iván Kovács provided updates on the ongoing construction works, assuring that the current schedule points to a complete renovation by June 2024. Successfully acquiring the building, completing the interior furnishings, and transitioning after the renovation will pose a significant challenge, he said. This challenge applies to the contractors and the entire project team. Despite facing challenges, like a neighboring property owner contesting the building permit for the Hungarian House, the project is expected to meet its June handover deadline.

Future role of the Hungarian House

Starting in 2025, the Hungarian House will perform diplomatic functions. The Ambassador notes good progress in construction, they expect to complete the renovation by June 2024. Despite a permit challenge, common in Belgium, it hasn’t slowed the process. The Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, along with the Hungarian Embassy in Brussels, are the investors. After the renovation in the second half of 2024, the Hungarian House will host priority programs for the Hungarian EU Presidency. Looking ahead, post-2025 and contingent on government decisions, the building will serve diverse roles, with both diplomatic and cultural purposes.

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Source: Economx