Constructed in 1956 based on Marcel Lambrichs [fr; nl]' design, the palais was initially conceived as the residence for the colonial Governor-General.[4][5] After the Congolese independence from Belgium in 1960, the Palais metamorphosed into a symbol of the new state. The official proceedings commemorating the nation's newfound autonomy, including King Baudouin's Proclamation, declaring the Congo's independence and Patrice Lumumba's speech denouncing colonialism, took place in the palais on June 30.[6][7][8] After the nation's independence, the residence briefly served as the seat of the Congolese parliamentary body, which now convenes in the Palais du Peuple.[9][8]
In the aftermath of the reconstruction and revival of the Congolese state following the fall of Mobutu Sese Seko, the mausoleum honoring Laurent-Désiré Kabila was erected near the palace's entrance.[10][11][12]