La Grand Place
The Grote Markt is the most visited and photographed place in the city.
With its ten or so buildings, each more famous than the next, the Grand-Place is one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles in Europe:
The Town Hall :
Located in the southeast of the square. A real architectural jewel, it is the most important and the oldest. We see a tower dating from 1459, 96 meters high, topped by a statue of St. Michael.
Guided tours are offered but the schedules are reduced: on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons in Dutch (1:45 pm), French (2:30 pm) and English (3:15 pm).
The King’s House:
Built in 1536 and reformed in 1873, it was for many years the residence of the monarchs. Today, this building houses the City Museum, in which are exhibited paintings of the 16th century, some tapestries and small costumes that are part of the wardrobe of Manneken Pis.
House of the Dukes of Brabant :
Group of neoclassical buildings of Flemish origin, formed by seven guild houses (from n°14 to n°19 of the square)
Le Pigeon:
Between number 26 and 27 of the square, Le Pigeon, a property that served as a residence for Victor Hugo during his exile in Belgium in 1852.
Le Renard, Le Cornet and Le Roy d’Espagne:
In the same building are the headquarters of the corporations Le Renard (1690) and Le Cornet (1967).
“Le Roy d’Espagne” is the most popular bar of the Grand-Place; besides the beer, it offers a privileged view from its terrace. Its façade features a bust of Charles II of Spain, ruler of Belgium in the 17th century.
Address: Grote Markt, 1000 Brussel, Belgium