In the heart of Liège, the Prince-Bishops’ Palace has watched over Place Saint-Lambert for centuries. Many people walk past without stopping. That is a shame: its first courtyard, free and open to all, is one of the finest Renaissance settings in Belgium.
A thousand years of history on one square
For nearly eight centuries, Liège was the capital of an ecclesiastical principality. Its ruler was both prince and bishop. Around the year 1000, Prince-Bishop Notger built a first residence on this spot. Fires and wars damaged it several times, notably in 1185 and 1505.
The palace you see today owes much to Érard de La Marck. From 1526, he entrusted the rebuilding to the architect Arnold van Mulken. After another fire in 1734, the main façade was redone in a more classical style. Between 1849 and 1852, a neo-Gothic wing was added on the west side to house the provincial government.
The palace is not a frozen museum. It still houses the law courts and the offices of the Province of Liège. You will pass lawyers in gowns and busy staff. That is what keeps it alive.
The first courtyard and its carved columns
Walk in through the porch on Place Saint-Lambert. You come out into the large courtyard, lined with arcaded galleries. They rest on around sixty columns. Take a close look: the shafts and capitals are all different.
The sculptors carved grimacing faces, grotesque masks and fantastic creatures. Some make you smile, others are a little scary. Children love hunting for the strangest head. Allow half an hour to walk round without rushing.
This first courtyard is open to the public all year round, during the building’s opening hours. The other, more private courtyards and the interior rooms can only be seen with a guide.
Guided tours: who, when and how
The rooms in the provincial wing can be visited on guided tours run by the Province of Liège. According to available information, they usually take place on the first Sunday of the month, booking required, and last about an hour. They are advertised as free. Groups can also book on certain weekdays, subject to availability.
The palace also opens its doors during the Heritage Days in September. Dates and time slots change, so always check the current programme on the Province’s website before you go.
Another option: the Liège Tourist Office (Maison du Tourisme du Pays de Liège) runs a two-hour guided walk through the historic centre that passes the palace. In 2026, it runs from April to the end of October at 2 pm, for about €10 online or €12 on the spot (prices checked in 2026). It is in French; an English tour can be requested by booking ahead.
The Archéoforum, beneath your feet
Place Saint-Lambert hides a secret. This is where Saint Lambert’s Cathedral once stood, one of the largest in Europe. It was demolished after the Liège Revolution, at the end of the 18th century. Its foundations are still there, under the paving stones of the square.
The Archéoforum lets you see them. Across about 3,700 m², you travel back in time from prehistory to the Middle Ages, past a Roman villa and the remains of the cathedral. Interactive tablets help you understand what you are looking at.
The site is normally open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. Adult entry costs about €8 (prices checked in 2026), and it is free on the first Sunday of the month in the afternoon. It closes on some public holidays, so check before you go.
The Perron and Place du Marché, a short walk away
Leave the palace and walk two minutes east. You reach Place du Marché. In the middle stands the Perron, a column topped with a pine cone, the symbol of Liège’s freedoms. Locals still use it as a meeting point.
The square is lined with old houses and the town hall, nicknamed “La Violette”. The café terraces are pleasant as soon as the sun comes out. To carry on walking, the Montagne de Bueren and its 374 steps is only a few minutes away on foot.
Mr Schaka’s practical tips
- Getting there: Liège-Saint-Lambert station is right next door. From Guillemins, allow about 30 minutes on foot, or take the tram or a bus to the centre.
- Opening times: the first courtyard is open during the day, especially on weekdays. On Sundays, access may be more limited.
- Be respectful: this is a working courthouse. Keep your voice down and do not photograph people attending hearings.
- Light: in late morning, the sun lights up the capitals best. Remember to look up.
- Combine: the palace, the Archéoforum, the Perron and Place du Marché easily fit into half a day.
- Weekend: to plan the rest of your stay, see our ideas for things to do in Liège over a weekend.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to visit the Prince-Bishops’ Palace?
Yes for the first courtyard, which is open to all. The Province’s guided tours are advertised as free, but you must book.
How much time should I allow?
Half an hour for the courtyard, about an hour for a guided tour, and another hour for the Archéoforum.
Can I visit with children?
Yes. The carved columns amuse younger visitors, and the Archéoforum is free for under-6s.
The book
Liège is the setting for Oscar’s Notebook, Mr Schaka’s crime series: follow Victor Lenoir and Oscar through the streets of the city.
