Cirque Royal concert venue in Brussels, Belgium during an event in June 2016

Royal Circus

Royal Circus (Cirque Royal) Brussels: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Standing at the cultural crossroads of Brussels, the Royal Circus—known locally as Cirque Royal (French) or Koninklijk Circus (Dutch)—is a storied performance venue celebrated for its innovative architecture and dynamic programming. Since opening in 1878, Cirque Royal has evolved from a permanent circus arena to a multifaceted cultural institution, welcoming international stars, local talents, and audiences eager to experience the best of music, theater, and dance. This comprehensive guide covers the history, visiting hours, ticketing details, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring you have all the information you need for an unforgettable visit (Wikipedia; circusphotographer.com).

Jean Jaurès delivering speech at Cirque Royal Brussels on 29 July 1914

French guitarist Jean-Pierre Danel performing live on stage with his rare 1954 preproduction Fender Stratocaster 'Miss Daisy'

Concert hall Koninklijk Circus Cirque Royal in Brussels during March 2024 event

French singer Laurent Lamarca performing live at Cirque Royal in Brussels in June 2024

Belgian poster for concerts held in Brussels from the 1896 publication Les Maîtres de l'Affiche

Róisín Murphy performing live at Cirque Royal, Brussels in March 2024

Historical Overview & Architectural Highlights
Programming: Music, Theatre, and Special Events
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Getting There & Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Travel Tips
Sources

Historical Overview & Architectural Highlights

Origins and Design (1878–1953)

Conceived during Brussels’ 19th-century urban development, the Cirque Royal was designed by architect Wilhelm Kuhnen and inaugurated in 1878. Its icosagonal (20-sided) structure, with a 37-meter diameter supported by twenty columns, was both an engineering marvel and a nod to Moorish and Indian aesthetics. The original venue included stables for over 100 horses and could seat 3,500 spectators, reflecting its beginnings as a permanent circus arena (circusphotographer.com; Wikipedia).

Evolution and Cultural Role

Quickly, Cirque Royal expanded beyond equestrian shows to host pantomimes, ballets, flooded-venue nautical spectacles, and even cinema screenings between 1908–1914. Its flexible event space became a vital part of Brussels’ cultural and political life. Notably, it hosted historic anti-war gatherings, like the 1914 speech by Jean Jaurès, and even served as a temporary prison during World War I.

Modernization and Restoration

After World War II, the venue was modernized by architect Charles Van Nueten in 1953, reducing capacity to 2,000 seats and updating its facilities. Since then, Cirque Royal has retained its unique circular form, domed ceiling, and elegant ornamentation—features that contribute to its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere (booksandbao.com).

Programming: Music, Theatre, and Special Events

A Stage for World-Class Talent

Cirque Royal has hosted an extraordinary range of performers, from Maurice Chevalier, Joséphine Baker, and Louis Armstrong to contemporary stars like Kylie Minogue and The Beach Boys (jazzinbelgium.be). Its annual calendar features:

Classical and Jazz: Orchestral concerts, jazz ensembles, and chamber music.
Contemporary and Pop: Agnes Obel (September 19, 2025) (avanzert.com), Stereophonics, and more (setlist.fm).
Theatre, Dance, and Multidisciplinary: Regular ballet, contemporary dance (e.g., “SUTRA,” multiple shows in 2025 (Ticketmaster Belgium)), comedy, and spoken word events.
Special Events: Family shows, festivals, and cultural weeks celebrating Belgian and international arts.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

General Access: The venue opens 60–90 minutes before each scheduled event.
Box Office: Typically open 10:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekdays and until event start on show days. For up-to-date visiting hours, check the official site or Ticketmaster Belgium.

Ticketing

Purchase: Online through Ticketmaster Belgium, the Cirque Royal website, or at the box office. Early booking is recommended due to limited capacity.
Pricing: Varies by event and seat category (Grandstand, Ringside, VIP). Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or visitors with disabilities—confirm at purchase.

Accessibility

Entrances & Seating: Wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, and dedicated seating areas are available throughout the venue.
Facilities: Accessible restrooms and trained staff to assist visitors with disabilities.
Transport: Close to Botanique metro station (lines 2 & 6), tram, and bus stops. Limited accessible parking nearby (Handy.Brussels guide).
Assistance: Contact the venue in advance for specific accommodations or companion card arrangements.

Getting There & Nearby Attractions

Location: 3 Rue de l’Enseignement / Onderwijsstraat, Brussels 1000
Public Transport: Metro (Botanique), trams, and buses all stop nearby for easy access.
Nearby Landmarks: Botanical Garden of Brussels, Magritte Museum, Belgian Comic Strip Center, Grand-Place, and Mont des Arts (visit.brussels; afternoonteareads.com).
Guided Tours: Occasional backstage tours and cultural events—check the official website for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Royal Circus visiting hours?
A: The venue opens 60–90 minutes before events. Check the official schedule for box office hours.

Q: How can I book tickets?
A: Purchase via Ticketmaster Belgium, the venue website, or at the box office.

Q: Is Cirque Royal accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes. Ramps, elevators, adapted seating, and restrooms are available. Contact the venue for additional assistance.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Occasionally, especially during special events or festivals.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is allowed in public areas before performances; restrictions apply during shows.

Q: What amenities are on site?
A: Paid cloakroom, bars, snack counters, accessible restrooms, and pram parking during select events.

Conclusion & Travel Tips

The Royal Circus (Cirque Royal) is an essential stop for anyone exploring Brussels’ vibrant arts scene or historical sites. Its rich heritage, central location, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse programming ensure a memorable visit for all ages and interests. Plan ahead by checking the event calendar, booking tickets early, and making use of the venue’s accessibility features.

For real-time updates, downloadable guides, and exclusive tips, download the Audiala app. Stay connected via social media and share your Cirque Royal experience using #RoyalCircusBrussels!