How did Austrian rule change Brussels in the 18th century?

In the 18th century, Austrian rule significantly transformed Brussels, both economically and physically. Following the transfer of the Spanish Netherlands to the Austrian Habsburgs in 1713, the city experienced a period of economic recovery in the latter half of the century, evolving into a financial center and fostering the growth of new industries.1

The physical landscape of Brussels also underwent major changes through large-scale urban planning in the upper part of the town, which resulted in the creation of the Place Royale and Brussels Park.1

However, this era was also marked by political tension. While the Austrian government initially sought to modernize institutions and improve administrative efficiency, the later reign of Joseph II introduced radical Enlightenment-inspired reforms that challenged traditional privileges and the influence of the Roman Catholic Church. These policies, which included the suppression of religious orders and the elimination of traditional ruling councils, sparked widespread outrage and culminated in the Brabant Revolution (1789–90), a conflict that temporarily disrupted imperial authority in the city.231