La Grand-Place, Brussels
Brüssel, Belgium
21.10.2010
La Grand-Place, located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium, is a stunningly beautiful square that has captivated visitors for centuries. With its intricate architecture, rich history, and vibrant ambiance, it is no wonder that La Grand-Place has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The square is surrounded by magnificent buildings, each with its own unique style and story. The most notable of these is the Gothic-style Town Hall, which serves as the centerpiece of La Grand-Place. Its intricate facade and towering spire are a testament to the city's wealth and power during the Middle Ages.
But it's not just the Town Hall that draws crowds to La Grand-Place. The square is also home to the ornate guildhalls of various trade organizations, such as the Brewers' Guild and the Bakers' Guild. These buildings are adorned with elaborate sculptures, gilded decorations, and colorful flags, giving the square a lively and festive atmosphere.
Aside from its architectural wonders, La Grand-Place is also a hub for cultural events and celebrations. Throughout the year, the square hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and markets, including the famous Brussels Flower Carpet, where the entire square is covered in a stunning display of colorful blooms.
But La Grand-Place is not just a tourist attraction. It is a place where locals gather to relax, socialize, and enjoy the beauty of their city. The many cafes and restaurants surrounding the square offer a perfect spot for people-watching and indulging in traditional Belgian cuisine.
In summary, La Grand-Place is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Brussels. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable experience. So come and discover the beauty and charm of this remarkable square in the heart of Belgium.
La Grand-Place in Brussels is a remarkably homogeneous body of public and private buildings, dating mainly from the late 17th century. The architecture provides a vivid illustration of the level of social and cultural life of the period in this important political and commercial centre.
The Grand-Place (French: [ɡʁɑ̃ plas]; "Grand Square"; also used in English) or Grote Markt (Dutch: [ˌɣroːtə ˈmɑr(ə)kt] ; "Big Market") is the central square of Brussels, Belgium. It is surrounded by opulent Baroque guildhalls of the former Guilds of Brussels and two larger edifices; the city's Flamboyant Town Hall, and the neo-Gothic King's House or Bread House building, containing the Brussels City Museum. The square measures 68 by 110 metres (223 by 361 ft) and is entirely paved.
The Grand-Place's construction began in the 11th century and was largely complete by the 17th. In 1695, during the Nine Years' War, most of the square was destroyed during the bombardment of Brussels by French troops. Only the facade and the tower of the Town Hall, which served as a target for the artillery, and some stone walls resisted the incendiary balls. The houses that surrounded the Grand-Place were rebuilt during subsequent years, giving the square its current appearance, though they were frequently modified in the following centuries. From the mid-19th century, the square's heritage value was rediscovered, and it was thoroughly renovated.
Nowadays, the Grand-Place is the most important tourist destination and most memorable landmark in Brussels. It is also considered one of the world's most beautiful squares, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. The square frequently hosts festive and cultural events, among them, in August of every even year, the installation of an immense flower carpet in its centre. It is also a centre of annual celebrations during the Christmas and New Year period, and a Christmas tree has been erected annually on the square since the mid-20th century.
This site is served by the premetro (underground tram) station Bourse/Beurs (on lines 3 and 4), as well as the bus stop Grand-Place/Grote Markt (on line 95).
