The name "Tour & Taxis" comes from the French version of "Thurn und Tassis," the name of the family that pioneered early European postal service. The building, constructed as a Royal Warehouse at the turn of the 20th Century, was used as a major hub of Belgian and European trade until 1987. The large warehouse is home to many fine restaurants, numerous shops and boutiques, as well as a theater that hosts musical, theatrical, and other performances.