Belgium, a small nation of 11,787 square miles nestled between the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, punches far above its weight in automotive history. Despite its modest size, this country has produced a remarkable legacy of racing excellence, with Formula One legends Jacky Ickx and Thierry Boutsen leading a long list of talented drivers. Yet, the pinnacle of Belgium’s automotive heritage lies within the Royal Palace of Brussels.
During the 1950s and ‘60s, King Leopold III and his second wife, Princess Lilian, built one of the most exclusive high-performance car collections ever. Their journey began with a 1952 Ferrari 342 America Cabriolet PF, the third Ferrari 342 ever made, commissioned by Pininfarina for the royal couple—a mid-century masterpiece
Two years later, Enzo Ferrari crafted another unique gem: the 1954 Ferrari 250GT Barchetta Europa, a one-of-a-kind model tailored for Princess Lilian. This priceless car reflects her remarkable spirit. Far from a tale of mere privilege, Princess Lilian’s life was defined by resilience. During World War II, she drove a Red Cross truck under enemy fire, transporting wounded Belgian and French soldiers. After Queen Astrid’s tragic death in a car crash, she became a devoted stepmother to the king’s children. Captured by the Nazis, the royal couple endured harsh conditions, starvation, and threats, yet they survived to build a life together—bound by their shared love for stunning, fast cars.
The current owner, a private individual from Mexico, has graciously shared this invaluable Ferrari with enthusiasts. Restored and maintained by the artisans at Motion Products Inc., it has earned prestigious accolades, including First in Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Best of Show at the Ferrari Club of America’s National Meet, and the top award at Ferrari’s 70th Anniversary celebration in Maranello, Italy. The car’s beauty is matched only by Princess Lilian’s legacy—her style inspired Jackie Kennedy, and her strength continues to inspire us all.
This royal Ferrari stands as a testament to craftsmanship and courage. If this story of automotive artistry captivates you, subscribe to our newsletter, The Steering Column, for more tales of classic cars and their legacies!
