European Court of Justice

Overview

The European Court of Justice (Court of Justice of the European Union) is the EU's supreme judicial body, housed in a striking campus of gold-clad twin towers and modernist wings designed by architect Dominique Perrault on the Kirchberg plateau.

Highlights

• Gold Towers: Two 24-storey towers clad in gold-anodised mesh - unmistakable on the skyline.
• Public Hearings: Open to visitors when in session (no reservation needed).
• Central Courtyard: A landscaped atrium between the buildings, open during office hours.

History

Established in 1952 as part of the European Coal and Steel Community, the Court moved to its current Perrault-designed complex on Kirchberg in 2008, with further expansions in 2019.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Check the Court's website for public hearing dates; proceedings are often in French.
• Tip 2: Photography of the exterior is unrestricted and the golden towers photograph best in afternoon light.
• Duration: 20-30 minutes.