Grand Place | Louvain la Neuve

The Grand Place is a central square in many Belgian cities, but when people refer to the Grand Place, they are often talking about the one in Brussels, Belgium’s capital. It is an iconic and historical location, known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and central role in Belgium’s history.

Grand Place of Brussels (Grote Markt)

The Grand Place of Brussels (also known as Grote Markt in Dutch) is the city’s main square and one of the most celebrated squares in Europe. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998 due to its remarkable architecture and historical significance.

History

• The Grand Place dates back to the 12th century, although the square's current layout and the majority of its buildings were constructed in the 17th century.
• It was originally the site of markets and medieval trade, and over time, it became the center of Brussels' civic life, hosting public events, celebrations, royal processions, and official gatherings.
• The square witnessed significant events in Belgian history, including military parades, royal events, and even tragic incidents like executions in earlier centuries.

Architecture

The Grand Place is surrounded by beautiful buildings, most notably from the 17th century, reflecting the Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The square’s architecture is characterized by the intricate detailing and ornate facades of the buildings, each of which tells a different part of Brussels' history. The square includes:

Hotel de Ville (Town Hall):

• The Hotel de Ville (Town Hall) is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the most famous buildings in the square. Built between the late 14th century and the early 15th century, the town hall features an impressive tower and elaborate statues of Brussels' former rulers and saints.
• The facade of the building is adorned with sculptures of important figures, and its tower stands at an imposing height of 96 meters, making it one of the tallest in Brussels.

Maison du Roi (King's House):

• The Maison du Roi is another key building on the Grand Place. Originally a guildhall for the Corporation of the Brewers, it was later converted into the royal palace for the Spanish rulers of Brussels. The building has a neoclassical design and now houses the Museum of the City of Brussels.
• The museum displays collections related to Brussels' history, including costumes, artifacts, and paintings that showcase the city’s cultural and political evolution.

Guildhalls:

• Surrounding the Grand Place are several guildhalls, which once belonged to various guilds or professional associations in Brussels. Each of these buildings has its own distinct architectural style, with elaborate facades decorated with golden accents and intricate carvings.
• These include the Guildhall of the Brewers, Guildhall of the Drapers, and others, which are now home to various businesses and cultural institutions.

The King's Column (Colonne du Roi):

• At the center of the square, there is a statue of Everard t’Serclaes, a medieval hero who played a role in defending Brussels during the 14th century. This statue is famous for the tradition where visitors touch the statue for good luck.

Events and Festivals

The Grand Place is not only a historic site but also a vibrant space for events and festivals throughout the year:

Flower Carpet: Every two years in August, the Flower Carpet event takes place, where the Grand Place is covered with a stunning carpet of begonias. The colorful display lasts for a few days and attracts thousands of visitors.

Brussels Summer Festival: The Grand Place serves as one of the main venues for this music festival, which brings live performances and cultural experiences to the heart of the city.

Christmas Market: During the Christmas season, the Grand Place is transformed into a festive space with a Christmas market, lights, and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.

Fête de la Musique: This is a celebration of music and arts where performances take place on the Grand Place, with local and international artists taking center stage.

Visiting the Grand Place

• Accessibility: The Grand Place is easily accessible by foot and is located in the heart of Brussels, making it a key tourist attraction. It is also well-connected by public transportation, including the Brussels Metro.
• Nearby Attractions: The square is within walking distance of other popular sites in Brussels, such as Manneken Pis, the Royal Palace, and the Brussels Stock Exchange.
• Dining and Shopping: The area around the Grand Place is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, many of which have outdoor seating where visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square.

Grand Place of Other Cities

While the Grand Place of Brussels is the most famous, other Belgian cities, such as Louvain, Ghent, and Mons, also have their own squares called "Grand Place" or "Grote Markt." These squares, while not as large or as internationally recognized as the one in Brussels, are still significant for their local history and their charming surroundings.

Louvain: The Grote Markt in Louvain is a beautiful square surrounded by historical buildings, including the Town Hall and the St. Peter’s Church.

Ghent: The Korenmarkt in Ghent serves as the heart of the city and is surrounded by notable landmarks like the Belfry of Ghent and St. Nicholas' Church.

Mons: The Grand Place of Mons features the Town Hall and is often a venue for events and festivals.

Conclusion

The Grand Place is a must-visit historical and cultural landmark in Brussels, combining stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural activities. Whether you're admiring the medieval and baroque buildings, experiencing one of the many festivals, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the Grand Place offers something for every visitor.